METSAF: Commission approves EUR 30 million State aid for agricultural, fishery and aquaculture companies facing increased fuel and fertiliser prices in Portugal
The scheme, which will run until 31 December 2026, aims to mitigate the impact of the increase in agricultural fuel and fertiliser prices due to the Middle East Crisis.
It will take the form of direct grants, and each company may receive a maximum of EUR 50 000.
For the agricultural sector, the aid for fertilisers is based on a fixed amount depending on the number of hectares of agricultural surface and the animals of the company. The aid for fuel costs consists of EUR 0.10 per litre of agricultural or marine diesel consumed from 1 April to 30 June 2026.
The Commission assessed the scheme under Article 107(3)(c) TFEU and Sections 1 and 2.1 of the Middle East Crisis Temporary State Aid Framework (METSAF). It found that the scheme is in line with the conditions set out in the METSAF. In particular, the aid will be granted based on a scheme with a clear estimated budget and will be provided to temporarily support the development of companies active in the above-mentioned fields. In conclusion, the commission found that the scheme is necessary, appropriate and proportionate.
For more information, see the Commission’s PR.