TIA in discussions with the Government and Parliament: seeking solutions to fuel price challenges

On March 18, representatives of the Transport Innovation Association (TIA) participated in discussions at the Government of the Republic of Lithuania and the Parliament of the Republic of Lithuania, addressing the impact of high fuel prices on businesses and the country’s competitiveness.

Lithuania is currently among the most expensive fuel markets in Europe—surpassing neighboring countries. The absence of an excise duty refund mechanism for businesses poses significant competitiveness challenges for the transport and logistics sector.

TIA Director Rugilė Andziukevičiūtė-Buzė, together with representatives of the Lithuanian Confederation of Industrialists, met with Prime Minister Inga Ruginienė and the Cabinet of Ministers. During the meeting, a systemic vision for strengthening competitiveness, proposed by the business community, was presented.

During the discussions, Rugilė Andziukevičiūtė-Buzė emphasized that the current pricing situation may accelerate the development of sustainable transport solutions. However, such transformation requires time and consistent investment—it will not happen within a month. Therefore, short-term measures were also raised, including a review of excise policy. It was noted that such decisions are complex, linked to international commitments, and require thorough prior assessment.

The issue was also discussed at the Seimas Committee on Economics, with participation from Martynas Narbutas, Head of TIA’s Green Transport Group, and Rasma Saulė, Head of HRX Lithuania. Representatives of the transport sector stressed the importance of a consistent strategy alongside prompt decision-making in today’s context.

Key discussion points:

🔷 High fuel prices and uncertainty negatively impact the business environment, particularly the transport sector, and contribute to overall price increases in the market

🔷 Fuel prices in Lithuania exceed the EU average, leading to fuel purchases abroad, which reduces state budget revenues and competitiveness

🔷 Decisions must be data-driven, taking into account actual consumption trends and excise revenue dynamics

🔷 Businesses need a clear, predictable, and consistent government action plan

🔷 In the long term, it is essential to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and create conditions for investment in sustainable transport solutions

The resilience of Lithuania’s transport sector can be strengthened by combining short-term measures with a consistent long-term strategy focused on competitiveness, energy efficiency, and sustainable development.