As from January 1, 2014, new road pricing for trucks is to earn the public purse DKK 1.5 billion annually, according to government plans. The charges will contribute to financing public transport.
But the plans are directly contrary to EU rules about how EU member states can collect tolls from trucks. The so-called Eurovignette directive, which is meant to ensure the free movement of goods and prevent overtaxing, has established a toll ceiling. This ceiling has been reached in Denmark.
Not the rigtht way to go
“The challenge Denmark is facing is an improvement of our competitiveness so that we can recreate the jobs we lost during the crisis. A new unique charge on goods transport is not the right way to go if we are to win back economic growth. I would urge the government to make sure that Denmark does not act contrary to EU rules in the area. Special toll charges reduce the mobility that is central for growth in the private sector,” says Director Michael Svane, DI Transport.