Key facts
- Retailers warned of food shortages due to a truck drivers' protest.
- Deliveries of fresh produce, milk, and meat were stranded.
- Airport fuel deliveries were disrupted in Calabria.
- The government is prepared to consider a cap on diesel prices.
A protest by Italian truck drivers over fuel prices and the cost of living has led to food shortages in shops, with deliveries disrupted and fresh produce rotting, retailers said on Wednesday. The protests, which began last week in southern Italy, have also affected airport fuel deliveries in Calabria and spread to farmers in Ravenna. Long queues formed on the A1 motorway near Naples due to restricted access. Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini indicated the government is prepared to consider capping diesel prices to alleviate pressure on hauliers. Italy has allocated approximately €1 billion this year to support truck drivers with surging fuel costs and vehicle modernization.