French Commerce Minister Serge Papin has suggested that motorists can access diesel at a price of €1.75 per liter, a figure he described as ideal yet achievable. Speaking on RTL on November 2, Papin made this calculation by taking the lowest available market price and adding the value of the "grand rouleur" aid program designed for France's most modest citizens.
The government recently released strategic fuel stocks to supply service stations, a move expected to lower diesel prices by between 12 and 18 cents per liter. While the average price was recorded at €2.38 per liter on Saturday, Papin noted that approximately 500 out of more than 8,500 stations were offering diesel at €2.15 on Monday morning. He argued that over half of all stations have reduced prices, covering access for 80% of the French population.
Papin explained that the "grand rouleur" allocation provides €100 over a three-month period to eligible individuals based on income criteria. He calculated this subsidy as equivalent to a reduction of 40 cents per liter when applied to fuel purchases. Although he acknowledged this scenario represents an ideal case, he insisted it is a reality for some drivers. The Minister emphasized that the government has taken measures to manage the situation for the coming three months, promising to adapt strategies as needed in the future.
Sources: Le Figaro.