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France’s Pump Prices Hit Multi‑Year Lows Ahead of New Year Increase

Cheaper crude drove the decline, reinforced by a firmer euro.

Overview

  • Government averages for the week ending December 19 show SP95‑E10 at €1.5992 per liter, the lowest since October 2022, and diesel at €1.5299, the lowest in more than four years.
  • Diesel accounts for about 65% of French fuel sales, magnifying the impact of the latest drop on consumers.
  • Industry representatives cite crude trading near $60 a barrel, higher output from OPEC+ and other producers, and demand concerns as key drivers of the fall.
  • A stronger euro reduced import costs, and some retailers ran aggressive year‑end promotions that deepened the slide at the pump.
  • Oil companies warn that higher obligations under the energy‑savings certificates scheme taking effect January 1 are likely to add about €0.04–€0.06 per liter, with most pass‑through expected in the first half of January.