Supporters of the tax, including the Alsace Public Works Federation, argue that the revenue generated will be reinvested into local infrastructure projects, such as a significant road expansion from Colmar to Sélestat.

However, local economic leaders remain concerned that the new tax could severely impact regional businesses already struggling from recent economic crises and a downturn in the German economy.

Bierry highlighted concerns over foreign-registered trucks dominating the A35 highway and expressed hopes that the R-Pass tax would ensure these operators contribute to road maintenance costs.

The CEA aims to improve traffic flow and safety, reduce air and noise pollution, limit road degradation, and rebalance transit traffic between Germany and France through this initiative.

Despite these intentions, many local business stakeholders oppose the tax, fearing it will harm the regional economy and lead to increased costs for consumers.

The Collectivity of Alsace (CEA) has announced the implementation of a new truck tax, named R-Pass, set to take effect in 2027, charging €0.15 per kilometer for trucks over 3.5 tons on key routes.

This decision was unanimously approved by CEA elected officials during a plenary session in Colmar, with the aim of addressing the increasing truck traffic on the north-south axis and connecting roads to Germany.

Frédéric Bierry, president of the CEA, noted a significant rise in traffic on these routes, with a nearly 20% increase in the first half of the year and a 30% spike in August and September, attributed to higher German tolls.

Local business leaders have warned that the tax could result in a loss of 1,500 jobs in the transport sector and negatively impact the economy, with estimates suggesting an annual economic loss of €64 million.

An impact study by Deloitte supports these claims, estimating similar job losses and economic repercussions, raising concerns among economic stakeholders in Alsace.

Protests against the tax have erupted, including demonstrations by farmers and business representatives in Colmar and Strasbourg, who argue that the tax will merely increase transportation costs for consumers.

In response to the backlash, Bierry assured that public consultations would continue for at least another year to finalize implementation details and explore potential compensations for affected businesses.