Norwegian trucking leader warns of cost hikes as fuel tax cut ends

Norway's trucking association leader said serious consequences loom after lawmakers declined to extend fuel tax cuts, with diesel prices set to rise several kroner on September 1. Knut Gravråk voiced disappointment after meeting Center Party leader Trygve Slagsvold Vedum and losing Conservative support. He warned fuel makes up about 25 percent of operating costs, and predicted transport service prices could rise five percent. Høyre’s Ola Svenneby responded that the state cannot assist single industries, advocating lower taxes for all businesses and noting oil prices are back to normal.