Manuela Schwesig, the state premier of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, has proposed a cap on fuel prices and a windfall tax on oil companies as key measures in her re-election campaign.

Manuela Schwesig, the Social Democratic leader of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, is making fuel price regulation a central focus of her campaign ahead of the state elections on September 20. Citing examples like Luxembourg, which has successfully implemented a fuel price cap, she proposed a similar approach to protect citizens and small businesses from soaring fuel costs. Schwesig highlighted that Poland has also taken significant steps to reduce fuel prices through tax cuts.

In addition to the price cap, Schwesig has endorsed a windfall tax on oil companies, echoing recent calls by Federal Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil. She pointed out that some companies are making daily additional profits of €30 million and argued that implementing such a tax would be straightforward by comparing profits year over year. Schwesig criticized the current federal leadership under Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Economics Minister Katherina Reiche for rejecting both the fuel price cap and windfall tax, stressing that alternatives must be presented if these measures are not pursued.

Schwesig also emphasized the impact of high fuel prices on her state’s economy, noting that 90% of local businesses have fewer than 20 employees and are struggling to cope with rising costs. By limiting fuel prices, she aims to ease the burden on small businesses and households, positioning herself as a pragmatic leader fighting for the economic stability of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. With the far-right AfD leading in recent polls, Schwesig is focused on regaining voter support by prioritizing economic relief and practical solutions.