France's government has announced the extension of financial support for individuals and sectors most impacted by rising fuel costs, which have surged due to the Middle East conflict. The aid schemes, originally set to expire on August 31, are now ongoing, with Energy Minister Maud Bregeon confirming that businesses will not be abandoned. Further details on the scale and duration of the extended support are expected in the coming days, with discussions still underway with affected industries. Businesses facing the greatest difficulties will still be able to apply for assistance.
TotalEnergies, a major oil company, has committed to maintaining its fuel price cap at its French service stations for the duration of the Middle East conflict. This cap, introduced in March 2026 and relaunched in July, fixes petrol at €1.99 ($2.12) per liter and diesel at €2.25 ($2.40) per liter. CEO Patrick Pouyanné stated that this initiative costs the company between €250 million and €300 million ($266 million and $319 million), but has resulted in a modest increase in market share from 22% to 25% and improved public goodwill.
The government has also confirmed the renewal of sector-specific subsidies for September and October. Fishermen will receive 25 cents per liter, farmers 15 cents per liter, and the construction sector 20 cents per liter. The cost of aid for fishermen alone is estimated at €6 million ($6.4 million) per month for this period. Additionally, the "grands rouleurs" aid, a €100 ($107) flat-rate payment for low-income workers using their personal vehicles for professional purposes, has been extended until September 30, 2026. This allowance is for those with a fiscal income per share below €16,880 ($17,990) who commute more than 30 km round trip daily or drive over 8,000 km annually for work. As of August 26, 2026, 1.39 million applications had been filed, with three million French citizens eligible.
