Unions representing Italy's fuel station operators confirmed on Monday that they are ready to stage a two-day strike to protest against the government's plans to deregulate their sector.
The unions said they did not call an immediate strike in order to allow the government time to consult with them before presenting a final draft of a deregulation bill.
Fuel station operators, in particular, oppose the government's plans to allow shopping malls to distribute fuels.
Consumer groups, on the other hand, have applauded he plan because it would reduce prices through greater competition.
According to the unions, fuel distribution has already been deregulated in Italy, since 1998, and there was no justification for a further liberalization.
The unions said they would announce the exact date of their strike towards the end of the week, after the cabinet formally approved the deregulation plan.
