Fuel prices rising again in France, rural households hit hardest

Fuel prices are experiencing a new surge in France, according to an article published by Le Monde. This development is linked to a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a strategic passage for maritime oil transportation, which has driven Brent crude above the $100 per barrel mark.

According to Le Monde, the price per litre of SP95-E10, one of the most widely used fuels by French drivers, is now approaching the peak reached in 2022, a period marked by sharp energy inflation following the outbreak of the conflict in Ukraine.

This increase in pump prices would primarily penalise rural households, which are more dependent on individual car use for their daily travel, given the lack of sufficiently developed public transport alternatives, according to information reported by the newspaper.

The Strait of Hormuz, situated between Iran and the Arabian Peninsula, is one of the most important passages for global oil transportation. Any blockade or disruption of this area has historically had immediate repercussions on global crude prices, as Le Monde points out.

French authorities have not yet announced specific measures in response to this price increase, based on available information at this stage.