“Motorists always the ones to foot the bill. Enough is enough…”

The Consumers Association of Mauritius (ACIM) could soon go to Court to challenge the recent tax of Rs2 on gasoline and diesel to finance the purchase of COVID-19 vaccines. Some Rs1 billion is expected to be generated from this tax.

According to a report in Defi Media, secretary-general Jayen Chellum claimed he is in talks with his lawyer over possible maneuvers.

“Motorists are always the ones who are called upon to finance government projects through tax.” This includes the levy of Rs 4 on fuel to finance subsidies on rice, flour, household gas and other government projects.

Chellum’s reaction comes soon after the debt-stricken State Trading Corporation (STC) Petroleum Pricing Committee increased the price of gasoline up to Rs 50.70 per litre (from Rs48.40) and that of diesel to Rs 37.70 (from Rs35).

“It is always the motorists who pay for freight to Rodrigues and for the construction of reservoirs for the storage of petroleum products. Enough is enough,” he was cited as saying.