Katerina Swanson
Since the start of 2023, it has become more expensive to fill up your car in France than in the UK. Historically, prices have been very similar in both countries, but what are the prices per litre of fuel in France, and how do they compare to other countries in the EU?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Price of a litre of fuel in France | More expensive than the UK as of the start of 2023 |
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What You'll Learn
Fuel prices in France vs. the UK
Fuel prices in France and the UK have historically been quite similar. However, since the start of 2023, it has become more expensive to fill up your tank in France. Between mid-2020 and mid-2021, petrol and diesel were more expensive in the UK. This is a shift from previous years when fuel prices were nearly identical between the two countries.
While the exact prices were not available, one source indicated that as of 2023, it is more costly to refuel in France than in the UK. This is a recent development, and it will be interesting to see if this trend continues in the coming months and years. The difference in fuel prices between France and the UK could impact travel plans and cross-channel transportation choices for both passengers and freight.
There are several factors that could contribute to the higher fuel prices in France. One possibility is that the French government has increased fuel taxes to generate more revenue or promote alternative energy sources. Another factor could be fluctuations in the global oil market, which can affect the import costs for oil-dependent countries like France. Additionally, the exchange rate between the Euro and the Pound may play a role, making French fuel prices seem higher or lower when converted to Pounds.
In contrast, the UK's fuel prices could be influenced by different factors. The country's decision to leave the European Union may have impacted trade relations and affected fuel costs. Additionally, the UK's domestic oil production and refining capabilities might play a role in maintaining competitive fuel prices. Furthermore, the UK government's fiscal policies and tax rates on fuel could differ from those in France, resulting in price discrepancies.
It is worth noting that fuel prices can vary within each country as well. Regional differences in taxation and distribution costs can lead to price variations across cities and regions. Rural areas may also experience different fuel pricing trends compared to urban centres due to logistical factors. To make an informed comparison, it is essential to consider the specific dates and locations within each country and be mindful of potential price fluctuations over time.
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How much tax is included?
Fuel rates in France are comprised of multiple taxes, including VAT, the taxe intérieure de consommation sur les produits énergétiques (TICPE), and the taxe générale sur les activités polluantes (TGAP). VAT is calculated at 20% of the total petrol price, including the TICPE, meaning that the total amount of VAT paid depends on the fluctuating price of fuel. In 2021, the TICPE was 68.29 cents per litre for SP95-E5 and SP98, 66.29 cents per litre for SP95-E10, and 59.40 cents per litre for diesel. The TICPE is a consumption tax applied to energy products and is recalculated annually. It can also be increased by regional authorities, leading to price variations across different areas of France.
The TGAP is an indirect tax on fuel that is applicable to businesses and activities that produce harmful emissions or waste. While the exact amount of this tax is not readily available, it is important to note that it contributes to the overall tax burden on fuel in France.
According to European Commission data from 2018, taxes on fuel in France accounted for a smaller proportion of total prices than at the start of Emmanuel Macron's presidency. Taxes on unleaded petrol were at 64%, while taxes on diesel were at 59%. These rates position France among the highest fuel taxers in the EU, comparable to the UK. However, it is worth noting that the tax rates in neighbouring countries vary significantly, with the Netherlands having the highest tax on unleaded petrol at 68%, and Bulgaria the lowest at 51%.
While taxes are a significant contributor to fuel prices in France, it is important to consider other factors as well. For instance, the increase in crude oil prices since 2016 has been a more prominent driver of rising costs for drivers than taxes. Additionally, differentiated taxes and complementary measures, such as improving access to public transportation or car-sharing, are being considered to tackle rebound effects, congestion, and regressive effects of high taxes.
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Unleaded petrol prices
Since the start of 2023, it has become more expensive to fill up your tank with unleaded petrol in France than in the UK. While the prices in both countries have historically been very similar, with petrol and diesel costing more in the UK between mid-2020 and mid-2021, the latest price trends indicate a reversal of this pattern.
The price of unleaded petrol in France is now higher than in the UK. This change may be attributed to various factors influencing fuel prices in both countries. The charts provided by RAC offer valuable insights into the average price of unleaded petrol across different regions. By regularly updating their data, travellers can make informed decisions and comparisons about fuel costs before embarking on their journey to France.
The price of unleaded petrol is a critical factor for travellers planning a trip to France. With fuel prices fluctuating across different regions, it is beneficial to stay updated on the latest trends. The RAC Fuel Watch service is a valuable resource, offering guidance on understanding the calculation of fuel prices. This information can help travellers budget their expenses, especially if they plan to drive extensively during their stay in France.
Additionally, understanding the breakdown of fuel prices is essential. A significant portion of the cost of unleaded petrol in France goes towards taxes. This knowledge can provide insights into the pricing structure and help travellers comprehend the impact of taxes on their overall fuel expenses. By considering these factors, travellers can make well-informed decisions and budget accordingly when planning their trip to France.
While the recent increase in unleaded petrol prices in France may be noteworthy, it is essential to monitor future price movements. Fuel prices can be volatile and subject to various economic and geopolitical factors. Staying updated through reliable sources, such as RAC Fuel Watch, enables travellers to make informed choices, ensuring they are aware of the potential expenses associated with driving in France. This information can influence travel plans and help optimize budgets, especially for those covering long distances or embarking on extended road trips within the country.
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Diesel prices
As of 28 July 2025, the price of diesel fuel in France is €1.64 per litre or $1.89 per litre. This is higher than the world average diesel price, which stands at $1.18 per litre.
In May 2025, the average price of diesel fuel in Europe was €1.39 per litre. Diesel fuel (B7) is widely available across Europe and can be found at every gas station. Prices at petrol stations along highways tend to be slightly higher than those near large shopping complexes.
Historically, diesel prices in France and the UK have been similar. However, since the start of 2023, it has become more expensive to fill up in France compared to the UK.
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How prices have changed since 2020
Fuel prices in France have fluctuated since 2020. Between mid-2020 and mid-2021, fuel prices in France were lower than in the UK. However, since the start of 2023, it has become more expensive to fill up in France compared to the UK. While exact prices per litre of fuel in France are not readily available, this change indicates a notable shift in fuel costs over the past two and a half years.
During the mid-2020 to mid-2021 period, France experienced lower fuel prices than the UK. This difference in price may have been influenced by various factors, including variations in taxation, crude oil prices, and currency exchange rates between the two countries. It's important to note that fuel prices can be influenced by a multitude of economic and geopolitical factors, causing them to fluctuate over time.
While the specific prices per litre of fuel in France are not explicitly stated, the provided information suggests a dynamic and changing landscape of fuel costs in the country since 2020. The comparison with the UK highlights the relative changes in fuel prices, indicating a notable shift where France transitioned from having lower fuel prices to higher ones compared to the UK.
It's worth noting that fuel prices can vary within a country as well, depending on factors such as regional differences, local taxes, and the proximity to supply sources. Motorists in France and those travelling to the country should stay updated with the latest fuel price information to make informed decisions and plan their fuel purchases accordingly.
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Frequently asked questions
As of 2023, it is more expensive to fill up your car in France than in the UK.
Between mid-2020 and mid-2021, petrol and diesel were more expensive in the UK, but prices have since flipped.
A large portion of what you pay at the pump in France is tax. The exact amount varies depending on the current price of fuel.
There are many factors that influence fuel prices, including the cost of crude oil, the value of the Euro compared to the Pound, and the level of taxation in each country. These factors can change over time, leading to fluctuations in fuel prices.
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