The Diplomat
The European Commission (EC) this week approved the modification of the Spanish government’s aid plans for sectors such as fisheries and road and rail transport, among others.
The modification was approved to increase the amount of aid to companies affected by the current crisis or by the sanctions and counter-sanctions following the war in Ukraine. Brussels has concluded that the modified Spanish aid schemes remain necessary, appropriate and proportionate. The objective is to mitigate disturbances in a member state’s economy.
The Commission gives the green light to the EUR 18 million scheme to support fishing boat companies, the EUR 450 million aid to boost road transport, the EUR 1.8 million for rail transport and the ¤10 billion scheme to support companies in different sectors. It has also approved an umbrella to keep companies active in the midst of the crisis.
With the variations introduced, companies active in the agricultural sector will be able to benefit from 62,000 euros. Meanwhile, companies in the fisheries sector will receive 75,000 euros and up to 500,000 euros for companies in other sectors.
In the same way, Brussels is allowing an increase in aid to road transport companies. In this way, it raises the plan to 900 million euros, as well as allowing aid for more types of transport and vehicles. In this way, it extends the deadline for applying for subsidies.
With regard to support for private rail transport, the government’s modification, now backed by the European executive, will bring total aid to 3.7 million euros. It will also allow public companies to benefit from these funds.
