Chief minister V D Satheesan
Kochi : Stating that the state govt will take stringent measures to curb large-scale diesel smuggling into Keralam, chief minister V D Satheesan said the authorities are examining the possibility of reducing fuel taxes. “We’re willing to consider reducing fuel taxes if such a move will help increase consumption,” he said, while inaugurating the Ignite Kerala Convention organised by the All Kerala Federation of Petroleum Traders (AKFPT). Noting that he had warned the previous govt against increasing the fuel cess, Satheesan said the same led to a decline in fuel consumption and resulted in revenue loss worth crores of rupees. “Entrepreneurs and industrialists are not enemies of govt,” he said, adding the UDF govt was committed to protecting taxpayers and would extend all possible support to promote industry and entrepreneurship.
He also assured that steps would be taken to simplify procedures and expedite the issuance of trade licences. Presiding over the function, AKFPT president Tomy Thomas urged the state govt to recommend to the Union ministry and oil marketing companies that dealer commissions be revised in line with prevailing economic conditions.