While Germany’s Minister Rejects Taxing Oil Companies’ “Excessive Profits” from the War in Ukraine, Spain and Italy Take the Opposite Stance
It is no secret that the war in Ukraine has had far-reaching effects. One of the most notable is the increase in oil prices. Some of this is the natural result of changes to the oil supply chain. But many argue that a large part of it is corporate greed.
That has led to many saying the oil companies have “excess profits” due to the war. Each country is treating those profits differently. Germany has said they don’t want to tax them. Meanwhile, Spain and Italy want to tax the excess profits. Other countries are similarly divided.
The Stance in Germany
Some politicians in several of Germany’s parties have called for a tax on these “excessive profits.” This includes the Greens and the Social Democrats, the latter of which is the party of Chancellor Olaf Scholz.
But the Free Democrats are a pro-business party that includes Finance Minister Christian Lindner. They oppose this type of tax.
Lindner’s Explanation
Lindner explained his stance. He argues that taxing energy companies’ profits would increase inflation further. He also referred to the increase as “arbitrary” and “for an individual branch.” He also expressed concerns about shortages. Lindner’s party also argues that there may not even be “excessive profits,” as there is no confirmation of them.
There Was a Cut in Fuel Tax
In early June, Germany implemented a fuel tax cut that will last three months. This was designed to reduce the financial fallout due to the war.
Countries with a Tax on Energy Companies
Britain, Spain, and Italy are just some of the countries to have approved taxes on energy companies. Poland took a similar stance. The Prime Minister, Mateusz Morawiecki, has publicly urged Norway, a major energy producer, to use its profits for good. Specifically, he urged them to support Ukraine and other countries hit hard by the war.
Britain
In May, the British government announced its plans. These included a 25% windfall tax for oil and gas company profits. The tax would be temporary. The goal is to raise billions for cash payments for those struggling with higher energy bills.
Spain
In Spain, officials hope the windfall tax on fuel companies and banks will raise 7 billion Euros in the next two years. Three billion Euros will be from the bank tax, with the remaining 4 billion Euros from the tax on oil and gas companies.
Conclusion
Oil and gas companies have record profits, partly due to the war in Ukraine. Some countries are imposing taxes on their higher-than-normal profits, but many have no intention to do so.
Sources:
https://www.dw.com/en/italy-planning-windfall-tax-for-excess-war-profits/av-62363565
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