Truck drivers in Italy angered by an increase in gas prices introduced as part of the government's austerity measures have blocked highways near Milan in the north and Naples in the south.

Also protesting Monday were taxi drivers who went on strike across Italy over plans to issue more taxi licenses. The measure is part of a liberalization package approved last week by the government as it seeks to convince investors it has a strategy to deal with its debts.

Truck drivers brought their protest to the mainland after bringing goods transport to a near halt in Sicily last week. Italy's top official in charge of security said the government would not tolerate traffic blocks, but would seek dialogue to resolve differences.