This measure has solidified the trend of customers from southern France crossing the border to fill up their tanks, a phenomenon that was already common before the global price escalation. Now, however, drivers are observed coming from areas further afield than Perpignan, attracted by the price difference.
Despite the increase in customers, a slight decrease in liters per vehicle has been detected, attributed to the general rise in crude oil prices. French drivers unanimously express their desire for the French government to adopt a similar measure to that implemented by Spain to reduce fuel taxes.
At the Grup Tramuntana gas station in La Jonquera, queues of vehicles with French license plates are constant. This station, exclusively for cars and vans, has seen the VAT reduction multiply the presence of already loyal customers. A spokesperson for the group confirmed the 22% increase in customers in the first month, which has forced them to rethink orders to meet the growing demand.
“"It's a customer base that was already coming before, but it's true that since the measure was applied, we've noticed the increase."
The same spokesperson highlighted the stability of fuel prices after the initial rise due to international conflicts and the absence of supply problems. Regarding a possible European obligation to return VAT to 21%, they noted that this
“"would reduce the differential and, therefore, the attractiveness"
but added that they would adapt to the situation. They also revealed a 4% decrease in liters per fill-up, as regular customers prefer not to completely fill their tanks due to escalating prices.
Interviewed French drivers confirm that the price difference, which can reach 50 or 60 euro cents per liter compared to gas stations in Northern Catalonia, makes it
“"very worthwhile to come"
and they now consider it a habit. Many of them call on the French government to apply a similar reduction. A student from Ceret explained that filling up in La Jonquera saves him about 20 euros compared to his hometown, just 25 kilometers away. There are even drivers who travel from cities like Toulouse, more than two hours away, to take advantage of the lower prices and fill approved containers.
