Restoring Balance in the Fuel Market
It is necessary to restore balance in the fuel market and ensure tax equality among all participants. This was reported by RBC-Ukraine, citing political expert Oleksandr Chernenko.
Proposed Solutions
«In addition to raising excise taxes, the Cabinet of Ministers should develop a system that will ensure fairness in the fuel market. First of all, excise taxes on different types of fuel should be aligned with their energy value — for example, diesel fuel and gasoline should be cheaper, and gas prices should be similar. Secondly, all market participants must pay taxes to avoid a situation where some companies evade taxation. These steps need to be taken simultaneously to achieve the maximum effect of legislative changes,» Chernenko said.
Eradicating Inequalities
He is convinced that inequalities and injustices in the fuel market need to be eliminated.
Addressing Specific Issues
«It should be noted that the excise tax on liquefied gas was raised disproportionately and unfairly. This indicates obvious lobbying. Another issue is that not all market participants pay taxes: some avoid this. If control over tax payment is strengthened, the state can receive up to 15 billion UAH annually only from this industry,» the expert emphasized.
Reasons for Increasing Excise Taxes
According to Chernenko, raising excise taxes became necessary due to the country’s financial problems in times of war.
Criticisms of Policy Approach
«However, officials are looking for ways to increase tax burdens where it is easier, not where it is needed. Raising excise taxes directly affects fuel prices, which affects a wide range of goods and services. Once again, officials have chosen the traditional path and increased the burden on the population. This is not the first time,» noted the former deputy.
New Legislation Approved
Earlier, it was reported that the Cabinet of Ministers approved a bill to increase excise taxes on fuel.
Impending Changes
According to the draft law, in 2024, the excise tax on gasoline will increase by 29.1 euros, on diesel fuel by 38.1 euros, and on liquefied gas by 3.6 euros per 1000 liters.
Expert Opinion
According to the director of the Consulting group «A-95» Sergiy Kuyun, the draft law uses minimum European excise rates.
