The price of diesel fuel in France has reached a new record, averaging 2.41 euros per liter, according to data analyzed by the AFP from public sources. This development comes amid a geopolitical crisis that has severely disrupted supplies. As of 10:30 am, the price of diesel fuel stood at 2.4097 euros per liter, based on data from over 8,700 service stations.
The previous record was broken as the price of diesel fuel has been increasing steadily over the past few days. The price of SP95-E10, the most widely sold fuel in France, was above 2.17 euros per liter on Sunday morning, based on data from over 6,700 stations. This represents a significant increase over the past ten days, surpassing its 2022 peak.
Other fuel types have also seen price increases, with SP98 averaging over 2.28 euros per liter, based on data from more than 6,800 stations. The recent surge in fuel prices, triggered by the conflict in Iran, has led to growing social tensions. This was evident on Thursday when fishermen in the Mediterranean blocked oil depots.
The French government is attempting to mitigate the situation, which highlights the country's heavy reliance on imported fossil fuels. To alleviate the burden on motorists, the government had introduced targeted assistance for "high-mileage" drivers, initially set to expire on September 30. However, the government has announced that this aid will continue beyond the initial deadline.
The government's ability to provide support is constrained by the state of France's public finances. The country's debt is expected to reach a record level in 2027 due to a persistently high public deficit. The Ministry of Economy has forecast a public deficit of 5.4% in 2026, up from 5.1% in 2025.
The calculation of the average fuel price takes into account data from stations that have updated their prices within the last 31 days. In cases where prices appear to be artificially capped, such as at TotalEnergies stations, this deadline is extended. Not all stations update their prices daily, which may affect the accuracy of the average.
The rising fuel prices and their impact on the economy and society are significant concerns for the French government. As the situation continues to evolve, the government will need to balance the need to support motorists with the constraints on public finances. The ongoing crisis highlights the need for France to reduce its dependence on imported fossil fuels and explore alternative energy sources.
Key points
- France's diesel fuel price reaches a new record of 2.41 euros per liter.
- The government's assistance for "high-mileage" drivers will continue beyond the initial September 30 deadline.
- France's public deficit is expected to remain high, at 5.4% in 2026.
