Minister Weyts opposes buffer zones for road tax stickers

Flemish Mobility Minister Ben Weyts appears unwilling to consider buffer zones for the upcoming road vignette, despite requests from border municipalities. The vignette, set to be implemented on May 1, 2027, has faced strong opposition from West Flanders, particularly the Westhoek region, due to concerns over its impact on local economies and border tourism. Minister Weyts argues that buffer zones would merely shift the problem rather than resolve it. Local leaders, including Mayor Christophe Dejaegher, express disappointment and plan to contest the decree, citing discrimination and potential harm to the free movement of goods and people. They highlight the importance of French clientele for local businesses and question why buffer zones cannot be implemented as seen in Austria.