As an unexpected consequence of the invasion of Ukraine by the Russian army, Belgian fries will be victims of the shortage of sunflower oil produced in the country within three weeks, warned the Minister of SMEs and the Self-Employed David Clarinval , Tuesday during the press conference presenting support measures aimed at combating the increase in energy prices. The iron sector should also be largely affected. In order to help companies, the system of temporary unemployment due to force majeure, which already existed for the coronavirus crisis, will be extended until June 30 (estimated cost: 25.3 million euros). “We accede to this request from the social partners”, indicated the Minister of the Economy Pierre-Yves Dermagne. He remains in contact with Energia (ex-Belgian Petroleum Federation), which has not carried out its threat to close the service stations.
In addition, the government is asking the National Bank to analyze the impact of this situation on the various sectors in greater depth. In the light of this analysis, the government will assess, in consultation with the social partners, the political measures that can be envisaged, in particular concerning the energy bill.