Public Accounts Minister David Amiel revealed a preliminary estimate of the tax revenue surplus from rising fuel prices, totaling around 270 million euros for March. The statement aims to counter opposition claims that the state is profiting from the crisis. Details include 120 million euros from VAT and 150 million from excise duties.
David Amiel, Public Accounts Minister, spoke on France Info on Friday to address the controversy fueled by the opposition, particularly the Rassemblement national. They accuse the state of profiting from surging fuel prices. He took care to describe his figures as “first estimates,” not yet finalized and unusual to disclose publicly.
He stated the total surplus for March stands around 270 million euros compared to March 2025. VAT on fuels accounts for an additional 120 million euros. Excise duties, based on sales volumes rather than prices, provide a temporary boost of about 150 million euros.
This government rebuttal also highlights the crisis's costs to the state, though specific details were not given in the interview. Amiel thereby argues the state is not enriching itself at drivers’ expense.
