Among its initiatives is to reduce the value added tax (VAT) on gas and electricity, as well as impose special taxes on gasoline and diesel.

The announcement was made by Belgian Prime Minister Alexander de Croo, who pointed out that at the same time Belgium is pressuring the European Union (EU) to freeze gas prices.

The measures will cost the State 1.3 billion euros, although around one billion euros will come from additional public revenues.

This is the second aid package approved by the Federal Government to limit the impact of rising prices on consumers’ bills, following a first package last January.

The measures include lowering the value-added tax on gas to six percent from April 1 to September 30, and extending the VAT reduction on electricity until September.

The social tariff will also be extended until September and a check of 200 euros will be earmarked for those who have oil heating, Belgian Finance Minister Vincent Van Peteghem said. jg/afl/mem/rfc