Spain: 35-year record inflation


Prices for gasoline and other necessities in Spain are soaring. The Sanchez government promises subsidies and changes in energy policy.

Car queues form even at noon on Saturday outside a discount gas station that works with a large supermarket chain in the city of Getafe, south of Madrid. When we say “discount” gas station, we mean that unleaded gasoline for drivers with a “membership card” costs 1.65 euros per liter, while for those who are not members the cost goes up to 1.78 euros per liter, but again it is a more economical solution compared to other gas stations, where the price of unleaded and diesel is close to or even more than two euros.

“Every Saturday I fill the tank at this gas station, but for the first time I wait in line,” said Luiz Martinez, 45, who has come from Madrid just to refuel. It seems to be worth it, because, as another driver from Madrid, 29-year-old Yoni Gagiardo, has calculated, “you save at least 15 to 20 euros, so it is worth waiting in line”.

“Europe is at war”

In Spain, within a few days, the price of unleaded petrol has risen by at least twenty cents and diesel by 26 cents. Discount gas stations usually belong to smaller companies and offer a solution, even if temporary. Zoriana, a doctor from Ukraine who has lived in Spain for many years, is waiting in line at the Getafe gas station. “Gasoline is good, but also cheaper here,” he says. “It’s worth the wait. What can we do? Europe is at war.”

The government of Pedro Sanchez claims that Spain is one of the countries least affected by the dramatic developments in Ukraine. However, inflation has already jumped to 7.6%, the highest level since 1986. In fact, the opposition newspaper ABC claims that the “household basket” has grown by 30% in the last twelve months, which is certainly not the only reason. in Ukraine. According to the latest data released on Friday by the country’s national statistical office, the price of electricity has increased by 80% and gasoline by 25%. Hotel prices have increased by 21%, which will certainly affect the tourist season, while even in … olive oil, if nothing else in abundance in Spain, there is an increase of 30%.

The Sanchez government promises subsidies

Finally, the socialist government of Pedro Sanchez decided to intervene. It now promises state subsidies for industries affected by developments in Ukraine. In addition, the Spanish Prime Minister is looking for alternatives to the import of cereals, while at the same time he states that he will accelerate the measures for the reform of the energy sector.

Giannis Papadimitriou (AP)

Source: Deutsche Welle

Source: Capital

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