nuSep 19, 2026, 10:17

Dutch gas station owners fear losing customers after German fuel tax cut

Dutch gas station operators fear losing customers to Germany following a new 17-cent-per-liter excise duty reduction in the neighboring country. Industry leaders are calling for matching tax relief in the Netherlands to remain competitive as global oil price volatility continues to drive domestic fuel costs to record levels.

Dutch gas station owners are expressing serious concerns about losing business following a decision by the German government and its federal states to reduce excise duties on diesel and gasoline by 17 cents per liter. Martin van Eijk, chairman of the trade association Drive, stated that this policy reversal threatens to reverse recent progress in customer retention for stations located in the border region. He warned that unless the Netherlands implements similar tax cuts in the short term, motorists will continue to choose cheaper refueling options across the border.

Beyond immediate tax pressures, fuel prices in the Netherlands are also facing significant upward pressure due to geopolitical instability in the Middle East. Ongoing conflicts affecting the Red Sea and the Strait of Hormuz have disrupted supply routes, driving up costs globally. With diesel reaching a record high of 2.824 euros per liter in the Netherlands, operators are struggling to maintain competitive pricing compared to neighboring countries like Belgium and Germany.

Economy Business Netherlands World

Read original ↗

Based on reporting by nu. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

Trade with Russia remains lucrative, but companies face risks

Despite 21 rounds of European Union sanctions against Russia, some businesses continue to profit by using third-party countries to bypass export restrictions. Experts warn that while such trade is lucrative, it carries significant legal risks, including criminal prosecution and prison time for those who intentionally circumvent these measures.

Banks must reimburse phishing victims within one working day, even if the customer made a serious mistake

The European Court of Justice has ruled that banks must immediately reimburse victims of phishing attacks by the end of the next working day, even if the bank suspects the client of gross negligence. Banks may only withhold or recover these funds if they can provide clear evidence that the customer was personally involved in fraudulent activity.

Netherlands wants to save emergency oil reserves, but pressure to release more grows

The Netherlands is resisting international pressure to release additional strategic oil reserves, arguing that these should be used only for severe supply crises rather than managing global prices. While global diesel and kerosene supplies are tightening, officials and experts maintain there is no immediate fuel shortage in the Netherlands or Europe.

Empty shelves, saunas in the coolers: our essential services are vulnerable to cyber incidents

The grocery sector is increasingly facing cybersecurity threats, leading to incidents such as empty store shelves and malfunctioning cooling equipment. Experts warn that these vulnerabilities in essential services could cause further public instability if security measures are not improved.

IMF raises economic growth forecasts for the Netherlands and the world

The International Monetary Fund has raised its economic growth forecast for the Netherlands to 1.5 percent for this year, citing improved conditions and a stronger recovery in Germany. Global economic growth is also trending upward at 3.1 percent, supported by investments in artificial intelligence and effective energy supply management despite ongoing geopolitical instability.