Energy crisis: France allocates emergency funds of Rp1.22 trillion

London (ANTARA) - The French government has launched an emergency aid package worth €70 million (approximately Rp1.22 trillion) to protect key sectors from the “price volatility crisis” resulting from the war in the Middle East.

The package targets the transportation, agriculture, and fisheries sectors, according to a government statement quoted by Anadolu on Saturday (28/3).

Officials stated that the measure is essential to maintain “food sovereignty” and ensure the smooth running of the national economy.

Small and medium-sized enterprises in the land transportation sector will receive €50 million in aid through a fixed payment scheme of €0.20 (approximately Rp3,490) per litre.

Agricultural diesel tax will be exempted for one month. The fisheries sector has been allocated €5 million to cover fuel costs, which now account for 35 per cent of total operations.

The government is also providing a “financial buffer”, including the suspension of tax and social security payments without penalties, as well as “Boost Fuels” loans of up to €50,000 for small businesses.

These measures will apply through April 2026.

The war between the US-Israel and Iran has been ongoing for one month. Since 28 February, the conflict has killed more than 1,340 people in Iran, including the then Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei.

Iran has carried out retaliatory strikes on Israel and several regions hosting US military assets in Jordan, Iraq, and Gulf countries.

The Strait of Hormuz, a route for shipping 20 million barrels of oil per day, has experienced disruptions since early March, leading to supply shortages and a surge in global oil prices.