Exporters to face German costs hike

Irish exporters face hikes of 20% in costs in transport to Germany in the New Year, the Irish Exporters Association said yesterday.

The price rises will result from higher toll road charges on German motorways. Owners of heavy goods vehicles will pay a new tax of €12.40 for every 100km travelled.

IEA chief executive John Whelan said it would be “practically impossible for the haulage industry to absorb this cost.