In the EU, over 50% of the fuel price goes to taxes, while in North America it is only 20%.
EconomyEuropean Union and North America
- Omissions
- The claim does not specify whether it refers to petrol/gasoline or diesel, though the figures are broadly similar for both fuel types.
- EU fuel tax rates vary significantly between member states, with some countries like Finland, France, and Germany having tax shares above 50%, while others are closer to 40-45%.
- US fuel taxes combine federal (18.3 cents per gallon for gasoline) and state taxes, which vary considerably by state (ranging from approximately 15% to 25% of the final price).
- The Tax Foundation source (2026) confirms the EU minimum excise duty on gasoline ($1.60 per gallon) exceeds the highest gas tax in the US, supporting the general magnitude of the comparison.
- The fuel-prices.eu comparison shows EU average prices are approximately 56% higher than US prices, which aligns with higher tax burdens in Europe.
- Sources
- SecondaryTax Foundation - Diesel and Gas Taxes in Europe, 2026The EU minimum excise duty on gasoline ($1.60 per gallon) is greater than the highest gas tax in the United States. EU member states levy varying excise duties, with taxes constituting a significant portion (typically 40-60%) of final fuel prices.
- SecondaryFuel-Prices.eu - EU vs USA Fuel Prices 2026EU average Euro 95 (gasoline): €1.777/L vs US: €1.136/L (+56.4%). Diesel: €1.913 vs €1.275. The price differential reflects higher tax components in EU fuel pricing.