The Dutch government on Friday announced a €2.8 billion aid package to counter rising energy prices and persistent inflation.
Social Affairs and Employment Minister Karien van Gennip has indicated that a one-time energy allowance for low-income families will be increased from 200 euros to 800 euros.
In addition, value added tax on energy will be reduced from 21% to 9%, while excise duties on gasoline and diesel will be reduced from 21%.
At the same time, the minister said in a letter to parliament that the government was taking steps to help people on low and middle incomes cope with rising energy prices and persistent inflation.
According to Ms van Gennip, inflation might rise sharply and reach 5.2% this year, mainly due to rising energy prices, while purchasing power is expected to fall by 2.7% on average.
