Commission approves €129 million Italian scheme to support the tourism sector in the context of the coronavirus pandemic

The European Commission has approved a €129 million Italian scheme to support the tourism sector in the context of the coronavirus pandemic. The measure was approved under the state aid Temporary Framework. The scheme consists of (i) limited amounts of aid in the form of a tax credit for lease payments related to tourism activities due for the period from January to March 2022; and (ii) aid in the form of support for uncovered fixed costs.

In order to be eligible, tourism companies must have suffered a decline in turnover of at least 50% during the eligible months, compared to the corresponding period in 2019. The tax credit will cover up to 60% of the rental payments related to the relevant activities. The Commission found that the Italian scheme is in line with the conditions set out in the Temporary Framework. In particular, when it comes to limited amounts of aid, the public support will not exceed €2.3m per beneficiary.

When it comes to support for uncovered fixed costs, the aid will not exceed €12m per company. Furthermore, the public support  will be granted no later than 30 June 2022. The Commission therefore concluded that the measure is necessary, appropriate and proportionate to remedy a serious disturbance in the economy of a member state, in line with Article 107(3)(b) TFEU and the conditions of the Temporary Framework.

On this basis, the Commission approved the measure under EU state aid rules. More information on the Temporary Framework and other actions taken by the Commission to address the economic impact of the coronavirus pandemic can be found here. The non-confidential version of the decision will be made available under the case number SA.102105 in the state aid register on the Commission's competition website once any confidentiality issues have been resolved.

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