Eight Italian MEPs from the European People's Party have asked the European Commission to intervene against sharp increases in maritime freight costs for Sicily and Sardinia, warning that summer surcharges of up to 50% on certain routes threaten the survival of local businesses and push up consumer prices. In a written parliamentary question submitted on 8 June 2026, the MEPs – led by Marco Falcone, Caterina Chinnici, Salvatore De Meo, Fulvio Martusciello, Letizia Moratti, Giusi Princi, Flavio Tosi and Massimiliano Salini – argue that the unilateral surcharges, introduced by shipping companies from 1 June 2026, compound the financial burden already imposed by the extension of the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) to maritime transport. The question targets three concrete demands: first, that the Commission propose measures to increase transparency, fairness and sustainability of maritime freight rates; second, that it promote mechanisms to manage or mitigate the impact of ETS costs on freight transport to prevent inflation; and third, that it strengthen safeguards for territorial continuity of island regions, potentially through a dedicated EU budget fund. The MEPs frame their request around the EU's economic, social and territorial cohesion principles enshrined in Articles 174-175 TFEU, highlighting the structural disadvantages faced by island regions. The question does not set specific numerical targets or deadlines, but calls for regulatory and financial action. Under European Parliament rules, the Commission is expected to reply within approximately six weeks; its response will signal whether it is prepared to consider new legislation or financial instruments to address the cost spikes.
Source📩 Open question ↗
Asked byMarco Falcone (PPE), Caterina Chinnici (PPE) +6 more