The National Committee for the Transport of Goods (CNTC) urged the government this Monday to roll out additional support measures for the industry as fuel oil costs rise amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The call comes as transport operators face higher operating expenses and tighter margins, prompting industry leaders to seek targeted relief to stabilize activity across the sector.
During a plenary gathering of the CNTC’s Department of Commerce, a body that serves as the main liaison with government authorities, members agreed to forward an aid plan to the Ministry of Transport, Mobility and Urban Agenda. The objective is to soften the economic impact of the current energy pressures on transport services and logistics operations while preserving service levels for businesses and consumers alike.
Key proposals include extending the public relief of 20 kuruş per liter on fuel through December 31, as well as introducing an additional 20 cent direct grant aimed specifically at professional transport. This targeted assistance would apply to vehicles with a maximum permitted mass of up to 7.5 tonnes, helping small and medium-sized fleets maintain service reliability and workforce stability.
Moreover, the CNTC is seeking a quarter of direct support for freight transport companies, with amounts tailored to vehicle type. Specifically, 1,250 euros would be allocated for trucks, and 500 euros for pickup trucks, recognizing the varied cost structures and capital needs across vehicle classes in today’s energy market.
In parallel, industry representatives urge a revision of the update mechanism for freight pricing to more accurately reflect current fuel prices, calling for an increase from the existing 30% to 40% in the gas-related component. Such an adjustment would help carriers maintain balanced margins as energy costs evolve, ensuring fair pricing practices within the supply chain.
On the legislative front, attention remains on the bill that the government plans to submit before July 31. This proposal is intended to apply the principles of the Food Chain Act to road transport, aiming to secure fair subcontracting practices and sustainable profitability for transport operators. The CNTC notes that its team has also reviewed and revised the draft to improve its alignment with sector needs and practical implementation, and it remains engaged in refining the text to better reflect industry expectations.
From CNTC’s perspective, the initial draft, while not wholly satisfying, represents a constructive starting point. The association expresses optimism that a final version will address the principal concerns of the industry and deliver a framework that supports continuity, competitiveness, and fair competition as the deadline agreed by the stakeholders approaches. Stakeholders emphasize the importance of timely policy alignment with market realities so operators can plan investments, fleet upgrades, and workforce commitments with greater confidence, even in a challenging energy landscape.