A leaked government working document, revealed by Franceinfo, indicates a rise in gross fuel margins since the start of the Middle East war. Margins have reportedly gone from an average of 30 euro cents per liter early this year to over 50 cents for diesel in some stations. Bercy disputes the document's origin and the accuracy of the figures.
A government working document, leaked Friday evening and revealed by Franceinfo, highlights an increase in distributors' gross fuel margins. The report states these margins rose from an average of 30 euro cents per liter early in 2026 to 39, 43, or over 50 cents for diesel, and nearly 40 cents for gasoline at stations like TotalEnergies, Eni, Esso, Avia, Carrefour, or Intermarché.
The Ministry of Economy, Bercy, denied knowledge of the document's origin and contested the figures. A ministry source explains margin controls are complex, varying by brand and supply sources, and claims the situation is now under control after initial rises tied to the late-February Middle East conflict.
Distributors reacted strongly. Coopérative U's Dominique Schelcher notes gross margins cover costs, including higher transport, with net margins stable or down. Carrefour's Alexandre Bompard calls the document erroneous and unfair to small station owners. TotalEnergies recalls capping its prices from the crisis's start.
Sébastien Lecornu expressed annoyance at distributors' stance, who shifted debate to energy savings certificates after a proposed margin-capping decree announcement.
