Italy’s trucking sector has officially entered what is being called a “hot autumn,” with mounting tensions between the industry and the government.
The National Union of Road Haulage Associations (UNATRAS), which represents almost the entire sector, declares it has entered a “hot autumn”. It is demanding clarity from Transport Minister Salvini on the government’s plans regarding excise taxes on diesel fuel.
Currently, the only available information comes from the media, with no official communication shared with key industry representatives. This lack of transparency has sparked significant unrest among businesses across the country. They are increasingly concerned about potential cost increases and penalties that could impact their operations.
Despite a formal request for a meeting with Salvini, there has been a deafening silence from the Ministry of Transport. No statement has been issued to address or defend the concerns of the trucking sector. This despite all political parties acknowledging it as essential and strategic to Italy’s economy.
In a meeting held today, UNATRAS leadership expressed deep concern over measures outlined in the government’s structural budget plan. These include aligning diesel excise taxes with those of petrol and revising tax expenditures, such as partial reimbursement of excise duties. UNATRAS unanimously reiterated its opposition to measures that would further burden an industry already struggling with unsustainable operating costs.
The association has called for an urgent meeting of its executive bodies to decide on actions to protect the sector. The possibility of a general strike is not being ruled out.
