Poste Italiane: Commission approves EUR 344 million aid for press distribution
Today, the European Commission has approved an Italian measure to compensate Poste Italiane for fulfilling its public service obligation to ensure the distribution of press for publishers and not-for-profit organisations between January 2020 and April 2026. Under this measure, Poste Italiane will receive up to EUR 344 million to cover the costs of providing this service. This decision builds on previous approvals by the Commission for similar public service compensation measures granted to Poste Italiane in 2019 for the period 2017-2019 and in 2012 for the period 2009-2011.
The Commission assessed the measure under Article 106(2) TFEU and the Services of General Economic Interest (SGEI) Framework, concluding that it complies with state aid rules. The Commission determined that the press distribution obligation qualifies as an SGEI and that the compensation provided does not exceed the net cost of delivering the public service, ensuring that Poste Italiane will not be overcompensated.
The non-confidential version of the decision will be made available under the case number SA.108766 in the state aid register.