The Cold Chain Federation has welcomed today’s Government announcement extending the current 5p fuel duty freeze until the end of the year, alongside additional measures aimed at easing pressure on transport and supply chain costs.
The measures announced include a reduction in red diesel duty rates until the end of the year and a 12-month suspension of Vehicle Excise Duty for HGVs.
The announcement follows extensive engagement from the Cold Chain Federation with government on the impact rising fuel and energy costs continue to have on temperature-controlled logistics and critical food and pharmaceutical supply chains.
Tom Southall, Deputy CEO of the Cold Chain Federation, said:
“The move to postpone the planned fuel duty rise in September is welcomed and comes as a result of months of intense CCF campaigning on the impact of high fuel prices on member businesses and inflation. With the average price of diesel rising by over 50p since March, this announcement does not reverse the impacts of the conflict in the Middle East, but it does provide some respite from any further rises this year.”
The Cold Chain Federation said it would continue engaging with government to ensure future fuel and energy policy fully reflects the cold chain’s critical role in maintaining food security, public health and supply chain resilience.
