Germany’s Finance Ministry, led by Vice Chancellor Lars Klingbeil, is
considering a windfall tax on oil companies to capture excess profits from
surging crude prices linked to the Iran war, with proceeds potentially funding
consumer relief such as higher commuter allowances. The proposal would be
separate from measures under Chancellor Friedrich Merz, including limits on
daily fuel price increases and tougher antitrust rules. The ministry declined to
confirm plans but said rising prices are heavily burdening households and
businesses.
