European Commission - Daily News

European Commission - Daily News

Daily News 15 / 12 / 2021
Brussels, 15 December 2021
RÉUNION DU COLLÈGE: Pacte vert pour l'Europe - la Commission propose de renforcer la
protection de l'environnement par le droit pénal
La Commission européenne a adopté aujourd'hui une proposition de nouvelle directive de l'UE visant
à lutter contre la criminalité environnementale, dans le respect d'un engagement clé du pacte vert
pour l'Europe. La proposition vise à rendre la protection de l'environnement plus efficace en
contraignant les États membres à prendre des mesures de droit pénal. Elle définit de nouveaux délits
environnementaux, prévoit un niveau minimal pour les sanctions et renforce l'efficacité de la
coopération en matière de répression. Elle contraint également les États membres à soutenir et à
aider les personnes qui signalent des infractions environnementales et coopèrent avec les services de
répression. Cette proposition contribuera à protéger la nature et les ressources naturelles, ainsi que
la santé et le bien-être des citoyens. Un communiqué de presse, des questions-réponses et une fiche
d'information contenant plus d'informations sont disponibles en ligne. (Pour plus d'informations:
Vivian Loonela — Tél.: +32 229 66712; Christian Wigand — Tél.: +32 229 62253; Daniela Stoycheva
— Tél.: +32 229 53664; Jördis Ferroli — Tél.: +32 229 92729)

Aviation: slot relief rules for airlines extended
Today, the Commission adopted an extension to the slot relief rules of the 2022 summer scheduling
season, running from 28 March 2022 until 29 October 2022. Instead of the normal requirement to
use at least 80% of a given slot series, airlines will only have to use 64% to retain historic rights in
those slots during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. While air traffic has not yet fully recovered to
2019 levels, it reached levels above 70% in the second half of the summer 2021 scheduling season.
Eurocontrol's most likely traffic forecast estimates that annual air traffic in 2022 will be 89% of 2019
levels. The new use rate will ensure the efficient use of airport capacity while benefiting consumers.
The ‘justified non-use of slots' exception, protecting airlines' historic rights to slots when state-
imposed COVID-19-related measures severely impede passengers' ability to travel, will also be
extended. Commissioner for Transport, Adina Vălean, said: “The progress in vaccination campaigns
and the EU Digital COVID-19-19 Certificate have helped to restore traveller confidence and air
connectivity in the EU, putting the industry in a stronger position to deal with short-term shocks.
Even if we are not there yet, we can take a step further towards the return to normal airport slot
management next summer. The decision we adopt today is a sign of that, as we increase the
requirements for slot use. I know the aviation sector is concerned about the new Omicron variant
and the recent drop in airline bookings. We are monitoring the situation closely. The Commission has
demonstrated throughout the COVID-19 crisis its willingness and ability to act swiftly where needed,
and this will remain the case in the coming months.” (For more information: Stefan De
Keersmaecker – Tel.: +32 229 84680; Anna Wartberger – Tel.: +32 229 82054)

L'UE continue de soutenir la promotion des produits agroalimentaires durables en 2022
Un montant total de 185,9 millions d'euros a été alloué à la promotion des produits agroalimentaires
de l'Union européenne à l'intérieur et à l'extérieur de l'Union pour 2022. Comme en 2021, le
programme de travail relatif à la politique de promotion de l'année prochaine met l'accent sur les
produits et les pratiques agricoles qui soutiennent les objectifs du pacte vert pour l'Europe, tels que
les produits biologiques de l'Union, les fruits et légumes, l'agriculture durable et le bien-être animal.
Janusz Wojciechowski, commissaire chargé de l'agriculture, a déclaré à ce propos: « La promotion
de la qualité et de la sécurité des produits agroalimentaires européens dans l'Union européenne et
dans le monde est une dimension importante du soutien apporté par la Commission aux agriculteurs
et producteurs européens. La politique de promotion des produits agroalimentaires joue un rôle
essentiel dans la transition vers des systèmes alimentaires durables. Notre objectif est désormais de
sensibiliser davantage les citoyens à l'agriculture biologique et aux pratiques agricoles plus durables,
associées à la promotion de fruits et légumes frais, essentiels à une alimentation saine et à

l'équilibre des régimes alimentaires. La demande de ces produits doit augmenter si nous voulons que
davantage de producteurs s'associent à la transition verte. » La politique de promotion cofinancera
des campagnes conformes aux ambitions du pacte vert pour l'Europe et soutenant les objectifs
poursuivis par la stratégie « De la ferme à la table », le Plan européen pour vaincre le cancer, le Plan
d'action biologique de l'UE et la Communication sur l'initiative citoyenne européenne intitulée « End
the cage age », pour une nouvelle ère sans cage. Plus d'informations dans le communiqué de presse.
(Pour plus d'informations: Miriam Garcia-Ferrer - Tél.: +32 229 99075; Thérèse Lerebours - Tél.:
+32 229 63303)

Digital Finance: new Commission strategy paves the way for modern and streamlined
supervisory data reporting
The European Commission has today presented a new strategy to improve and modernise financial
supervisory reporting in the EU. The strategy's main objective is to put in place a system that
delivers accurate, consistent, and timely data to supervisory authorities at EU and national level,
while minimising the overall reporting burden on financial institutions. This will ultimately benefit
citizens, through more efficient and agile supervision that ensures the stability of the financial
system, market integrity, and investor protection. It will also help companies by reducing the
reporting burden where possible. This strategy will contribute directly to the objectives of the
European Data Strategy and the Digital Finance package to promote digital innovation in Europe.
Moreover, this strategy contributes to the objectives of a Capital Markets Union and helps to achieve
a single market in financial services. Valdis Dombrovskis, Executive Vice-President for an Economy
that Works for People said “Our aim is to make financial reporting in the EU more effective and to
take full advantage of the opportunities offered by the digital transition. This strategy paves the way
for a solid approach to monitor risks, ensuring financial stability and market integrity, and protecting
the EU's investors and users of financial services. It is also part of our work to make Europe's
financial sector more digital-friendly and to stimulate responsible innovation and competition. We are
also taking a leading role in international discussions to promote global data alignment for digital
economy to be effective, secure and accessible to all.” Mairead McGuinness, Commissioner
responsible for financial services, financial stability and Capital Markets Union said, “Supervisory
reporting underpins a sound financial sector, and we want the EU's reporting system to be fit for the
future. Today's Strategy will make our current system more efficient and ease the administrative
burden on financial companies. This will ensure that the EU's financial services sector remains a
global leader, supporting supervisory authorities in maintaining financial stability and protecting
consumers.” A press release and Q&A are available. (For more information: Daniel Ferrie – Tel.: +32
229 86500; Aikaterini Apostola – Tel.: +32 229 87624)

EU promotes World Trade Organization initiatives on Trade and Environment
The European Union has today committed to increase the role of trade in the fight against climate
change and protecting the environment. It has signed up to three new initiatives to step up joint
action in the World Trade Organization, sending a strong political signal on pursuing environmental
agenda for trade. The EU and a significant number of WTO countries will now work jointly on
facilitating trade in green goods and services, promoting sustainable supply chains and the circular
economy. They will also cooperate on battling plastic pollution and to enhance transparency of fossil
fuel subsidies. Executive Vice-President and Commissioner for Trade Valdis Dombrovskis said: “The
European Union is proud to co-sponsor these initiatives at the WTO. We believe trade policy has a
role to play in tackling climate change and environmental degradation, which is why our new EU
trade strategy is our greenest ever. The WTO must also play its part, and we are now taking
important steps in this regard. Countries from around the globe, including developed and developing
WTO Members, are joining forces to send this strong political signal - and I trust that more will join
in the future. Climate and environment issues must be tackled in a holistic way, not in silos: this is
why the EU recently initiated the idea of a Trade Ministers Climate Coalition. This could make a big
difference in building political momentum, helping to support the work we launch today.” A press
release is available here. (For more information: Miriam Garcia Ferrer - Tel.: +32 229 99075; Sophie
Dirven - Tel.: +32 229 67228)

Water and drought stress: Commission report shows water management progressing, but
at slow speed
Today, the Commission adopted the latest Report on the implementation of EU water rules,
measuring Member States' progress towards bringing all European water bodies in a good status by
2027. The report measures Member States' progress towards that goal, in particular in terms of

tackling pollution, abstraction and water efficiency. However, it also shows that there is still a
considerable gap to full compliance with the objectives of the Water Framework Directive. Several
obstacles keep Member States from implementing their measures at speed, mainly the lack of
adequate finance, but also delays, and governance. Commissioner for the Environment, Fisheries and
Oceans Virginijus Sinkevičius, said: "Drought and water stress cause €9 billion of damage every
year, not counting damage to ecosystems and the services they provide. Only healthy rivers and
lakes can help protect us against the rising challenges of droughts and floods. While Member States
are making progress in the right direction, we need to go faster, and invest more in water
management. With the European Green Deal we can enhance our water resilience across all policies.”
The Report shows that, by mid-term of the 2016-2021 water management cycle the implementation
of measures was on track in all Member States, with delays in some cases. Reducing flood risk across
Europe requires consistent implementation of the Floods Directive and cooperation across borders.
 Half of the Member States have improved data collection and/or methodologies for the first
assessment of flood risks. The vast majority of Member States are considering the consequences of
future flooding on human health, the environment, cultural heritage and economic activity. Today's
report is complemented by three studies - economic study on costs and investments in the water
sector, study on floods and climate change and a study on floods and agriculture . More information
is in the news item. (For more information: Vivian Loonela - Tel.: +32 229 66712; Daniela Stoycheva
– Tel.: +32 229 53664)

Biodiversity: Commission launches new tools to strengthen EU biodiversity governance
Today, the Commission launched two new online tools to track progress in implementing the EU
Biodiversity Strategy for 2030 – a central initiative to achieving the European Green Deal. Hosted by
the EU Knowledge Centre for Biodiversity, an online actions tracker will provide up-to-date
information on the state of implementation of the many actions of the EU Biodiversity Strategy. A
targets dashboard will complete the picture by showing progress to the quantified biodiversity
targets set by the Strategy, both at the EU level as well as in the Member States. The dashboard is in
its prototype phase, with a current set of seven indicators that will be complemented with additional
ones in 2022. These tools are essential to monitor progress on the commitments made and central to
the Commission's ongoing efforts to strengthen the EU biodiversity governance framework. By
constantly improving the knowledge and evidence base for biodiversity policy, increasing
accountability for implementation, ensuring transparent and effective progress monitoring and
review, and engaging stakeholders across the board, the Commission supports the delivery of the EU
biodiversity commitments and targets. The Commission will further announce a call for stakeholders
to engage in the implementation of the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030 by joining the EU
Biodiversity Platform: an expert group bringing together Member States' authorities and stakeholders
to discuss and coordinate their efforts in implementing the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030. (For
more information: Vivian Loonela - Tel.: +32 229 66712; Daniela Stoycheva – Tel.: +32 229 53664)

RÉUNION DU COLLÈGE : la Commission statue sur les demandes d'enregistrement de deux
nouvelles initiatives citoyennes européennes
La Commission européenne a décidé hier d'enregistrer une initiative citoyenne européenne intitulée
« The green VAT — Une TVA verte pour stimuler des produits et services durables et respectueux de
l'environnement ». Les organisateurs de l'initiative invitent la Commission à proposer un acte
juridique visant à « réduire le taux de TVA pour les produits et services verts ». Étant donné que
cette initiative citoyenne européenne remplit les conditions nécessaires, la Commission considère
qu'elle est juridiquement recevable. La Commission n'a pas analysé le fond de la proposition à ce
stade. Après l'enregistrement d'aujourd'hui, les organisateurs de l'initiative « The green VAT »
disposent d'un délai de six mois pour commencer à recueillir des signatures. Si une initiative
citoyenne européenne reçoit 1 million de déclarations de soutien dans un délai d'un an de la part
d'au moins sept États membres différents, la Commission devra réagir. Hier encore, la Commission
européenne a dû refuser l'enregistrement de l'« initiative EVE pour la création du droit de décision ».
L'initiative invite la Commission à présenter une proposition pour l'introduction d'un nouveau droit
fondamental qui devrait établir un « système de démocratie directe » au niveau des institutions de
l'Union, où les citoyens peuvent décider, « de manière cohérente », « sur des questions communes
ou publiques », exerçant ainsi conjointement la « souveraineté du peuple ». La réalisation de cet
objectif ne peut être atteinte qu'au moyen d'une modification des traités. Toutefois, le règlement
(UE) 2019/788 ne permet que des initiatives qui demandent à la Commission de proposer, dans le
cadre de ses compétences, des actes de droit dérivé pour mettre en œuvre les traités. De plus
amples informations sont disponibles dans un communiqué de presse. (Pour plus d'informations:
Christian Wigand — Tél.: +32 229 62253; Jördis Ferroli — Tél.: +32 229 92729)

EU launches the Digital for Development Hub for Latin America and the Caribbean
Yesterday, the European Commission and the Slovenian Presidency of the Council launched the
Digital for Development (D4D) Hub for Latin America and the Caribbean. One year after launching
the D4D Hub for Africa, this is a significant step to drive forward global cooperation on digital issues,
in line with the EU's Global Gateway Strategy. Commissioner for International Partnerships, Jutta
Urpilainen, said: ”Societies thrive when they are connected to one another. Today more than ever,
digital technologies are decisive for sustainable development. I am delighted to see that the Digital
for Development Hub is reaching another level of its international operationalisation; this will
reinforce our ties with our partners from Latin America and the Caribbean. This is the EU Global
Gateway in action.” The Latin America and Caribbean branch of the D4D will bring the EU and Latin
American and Caribbean digital markets closer together. The EU-Latin America and the Caribbean
Digital Alliance is due to be established in 2022. The D4D Hub will be one of the main channels to
translate digital transformation into actions, by bringing in EU digital expertise and technology and
by fostering contacts, partnerships and investments in the digital economy of Latin America and the
Caribbean. The D4D approach is based on knowledge sharing, advisory services to national and
regional institutions and technical assistance to leverage expertise and partnerships with all relevant
stakeholders: from governments to the private sector, academia, think tanks, civil society
organisations. More information available in the press release and on the dedicated website. (For
more information: Ana Pisonero Hernández - Tel.: +32 229 54320; Gesine Knolle – Tel.: +32 229
54323)

Conférence sur l'avenir de l'Europe: le second panel de citoyens livre ses recommandations
Du 10 au 12 décembre, le panel de citoyens européens sur la démocratie et les valeurs européennes,
les droits, l'État de droit et la sécurité a participé à sa troisième et dernière session. Lors de la
session qui s'est tenue à l'Institut universitaire européen à Florence, Italie, et à distance, des
citoyens issus de tous les États membres, de tous âges et de tous horizons, ont adopté 39
recommandations pour l'avenir de l'Europe dans les domaines de ce panel. Pour revoir les
enregistrements vidéo des réunions du panel, cliquez ici et ici. La session finale du panel a été
organisée dans le plein respect des mesures sanitaires en vigueur à Florence. Afin de garantir que
tous les panélistes puissent participer, une connexion à distance était également possible. Les
citoyens se sont appuyés sur leurs travaux lors des deux précédentes sessions à Strasbourg, les 24-
26 septembre et en ligne, les 12-14 novembre, et se sont concentrés sur les thèmes suivants:
assurer le respect des droits et la non-discrimination, protéger la démocratie et l'État de droit,
réformer l'UE, construire l'identité européenne, et renforcer la participation citoyenne. Les
recommandations seront présentées et débattues à la plénière de la Conférence, dont 20
représentants de chacun des panels de citoyens européens, sont membres. C'est là qu'ils
présenteront les conclusions des discussions au sein de leurs panels respectifs et débattront avec des
eurodéputés, des représentants de gouvernements et de parlements nationaux, des commissaires
européens et d'autres membres de la plénière issus d'organes de l'UE, des autorités régionales et
locales, des partenaires sociaux et de la société civile. La prochaine plénière de la Conférence se
tiendra d'ici fin janvier à Strasbourg. Entre temps, les groupes de travail de la plénière se réuniront
vendredi 17 décembre à distance. Les citoyens de toute l'UE peuvent continuer à participer à la
Conférence via la plateforme numérique multilingue. Un communiqué de presse est disponible en
ligne. (Pour plus amples d'informations: Daniel Ferrie – Tél.: +32 229 86500; Sinéad Meehan-van
Druten – Tél.: +32 229 84094)

State aid: Commission approves 2022-2027 regional aid map for Germany, Sweden, Latvia
and Bulgaria
The European Commission has approved under EU State aid rules Germany, Latvia, Sweden and
Bulgaria's maps for granting regional aid from 1 January 2022 to 31 December 2027, within the
framework of the revised Regional aid Guidelines (‘RAG'). The revised RAG, adopted by the
Commission on 19 April 2021 and entering into force on 1 January 2022, enable Member States to
support the least favoured European regions in catching up and to reduce disparities in terms of
economic well-being, income and unemployment – cohesion objectives that are at the heart of the
Union. They also provide increased possibilities for Member States to support regions facing
transition or structural challenges such as depopulation, to contribute fully to the green and digital
transitions. At the same time, the revised RAG maintain strong safeguards to prevent Member States
from using public money to trigger the relocation of jobs from one EU Member State to another,
which is essential for fair competition in the Single Market. Regional aid maps define the regions

eligible for regional investment aid in each of the countries. The map also establishes the maximum
aid intensities in the eligible regions. The aid intensity is the maximum amount of State aid that can
be granted per beneficiary, expressed as a percentage of eligible investment costs. Under the revised
RAG, regions covering the entire population of Bulgaria and of Latvia, regions covering 18.1% of the
population of Germany and regions covering 21.6% of the population of Sweden will be eligible for
regional investment aid. For more information, press releases are available for each regional aid
map: Germany, Sweden, Latvia and Bulgaria. (For more information: Arianna Podesta – Tel.: +32
229 87024; Giulia Astuti – Tel.: +32 229 55344; Maria Tsoni – Tel.: +32 229 90526)

State aid: Commission approves €150 million Spanish scheme under Recovery and
Resilience Facility to support deployment of passive infrastructure for mobile networks
The European Commission has approved, under EU State aid rules, a €150 million Spanish scheme
made available through the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF) supporting the deployment of
passive infrastructure for the provision of mobile communications services in areas where there
currently is no 4G mobile coverage with speeds of at least 10 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload.
The measure will help Spain reduce the digital divide and will also contribute to the EU's strategic
objectives relating to the digital transition. The scheme will run until 31 December 2025 and support
will take the form of direct grants. The scheme aims at addressing the digital divide in Spain,
increasing the attractiveness for living and investing in rural areas, stimulating economic growth, as
well as maintaining and creating jobs in structurally weaker regions. The Commission assessed the
scheme under the EU State aid rules, in particular Article 107(3)(c) of the Treaty on the Functioning
of the European Union. On this basis, the Commission concluded that the Spanish scheme is in line
with EU State aid rules. Executive Vice-President Margrethe Vestager, in charge of competition
policy, said: “With this €150 million scheme consumers in currently underserved areas in Spain will
have access to higher speed mobile communication services and will obtain improved Internet-based
services. This will help reduce the digital divide and contribute to the economic growth, in line with
state aid rules and taking into account the objectives of the European digital transition.” A press
release is available here. (For more information: Arianna Podesta – Tel.: +32 229 87024; Giulia
Astuti – Tel.: +32 229 55344; Maria Tsoni – Tel.: +32 229 90526)

State aid: Commission approves Greek support for the construction of Patra-Pyrgos section
of Olympia Odos Motorway
The European Commission has approved, under EU State aid rules, Greek public funding of around
€217 million for the construction of the Patra-Pyrgos section of the Olympia Odos Motorway in
Greece. As the construction and operation of the Patra-Pyrgos section will be integrated in the
existing concession agreement with the concessionaire Olympia Odos SA, the Commission also
assessed and approved the application, to the Patra-Pyrgos section, of the existing toll sharing
mechanism under the agreement, as well as a conditional 3-year extension of the concession period.
This will allow the completion and operation of part of the Trans-European road network, without
causing undue distortions of competition. The Commission assessed the measure under Article
107(3)(c) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU). The Commission found
that: (i) the aid will contribute to the development of the economic areas which the Patra-Pyrgos
section mainly serves (Western Greece and Peloponnese), and (ii) the support measures are
necessary and proportionate for the implementation of the project. On this basis, the Commission
concluded that the public funding granted for the construction of the Patra-Pyrgos section of Olympia
Odos Motorway is in line with EU State aid rules. Executive Vice-President Margrethe Vestager, in
charge of competition policy, said: "The construction of the Patra-Pyrgos section of the Olympia Odos
motorway will contribute to the development of the areas concerned and of the economic activities in
these areas. This decision enables Greece to support the construction of this important infrastructure,
which is part of the Trans European road network, and which is expected to also significantly improve
road safety conditions in the area." A press release is available here. (For more information: Arianna
Podesta – Tel.: +32 229 87024; Giulia Astuti – Tel.: +32 229 55344)

State aid: Commission approves €610 million voucher scheme to support access to high-
speed broadband services by small and medium enterprises in Italy
The European Commission has approved, under EU State aid rules, a €610 million Italian voucher
scheme to help small and medium enterprises (SMEs) access high-speed broadband services. The
measure will support SME's access to effective Internet connections, enabling them to benefit from
online services and offerings, while limiting distortions of competition. The measure is part of a
comprehensive strategy that Italy has put in place to address the needs of citizens and businesses in

the context of the digitalization of the country and will also contribute to the EU's strategic objectives
relating to the digital transition. The Italian scheme will provide aid in the form of vouchers to SMEs
that will subscribe to broadband services capable of ensuring download speeds of at least 30
megabits per second (Mbps). The vouchers will support increased take-up by SMEs by covering part
of the set-up costs of high-speed broadband services and the monthly fee, for a maximum of 24
months. The vouchers can be used to subscribe to new connections or to upgrade existing
connections provided certain conditions. Italy notified the support measure for assessment by the
Commission under State aid rules. The Commission found that the scheme amounts to State aid in
favour of both SMEs and electronic communications services providers, and therefore assessed the
measure under State aid rules, in particular Article 107(3)(c) TFEU, which allows State aid to
facilitate the development of certain economic activities or of certain economic areas. Executive Vice-
President Margrethe Vestager, in charge of competition policy, said: “This €610 million Italian
voucher scheme aims to increase the number of SMEs subscribing to high-speed broadband services
in areas where suitable infrastructure is available, but currently insufficiently used. This will
contribute to the economic development of SMEs in Italy, while ensuring that competition is not
unduly distorted.” A press release is available here. (For more information: Arianna Podesta – Tel.:
+32 229 87024; Giulia Astuti – Tel.: +32 229 55344; Maria Tsoni – Tel.: +32 229 90526)

Aide d'État: la Commission autorise un régime belge de 12,7 millions d'euros visant à
soutenir les aéroports wallons
La Commission européenne a autorisé, en vertu des règles de l'UE en matières d'aides d'État, un
régime belge de la Région wallonne visant à soutenir les aéroports touchés par la pandémie de
coronavirus et les mesures restrictives mises en place pour limiter la propagation du virus. Le régime
a été autorisé sur la base de l'Encadrement temporaire en matière d'aides d'État. Dans le cadre de ce
régime, l'aide prendra la forme d'un soutien aux coûts fixes non couverts par le biais d'une
annulation des créances de redevances de concession dues par les aéroports wallons. Le montant de
l'aide par bénéficiaire sera établi sur une base individuelle, et correspondra aux redevances de
concession dues au titre des conventions d'exploitation conclues entre la Région wallonne et les
aéroports. Le montant de l'aide n'excédera pas 10 millions d'euros par bénéficiaire. L'objectif du
dispositif est de fournir aux bénéficiaires la capacité financière nécessaire pour faire face à leurs
besoins de trésorerie. La Commission a conclu que le régime belge est conforme aux conditions
énoncées dans l'Encadrement Temporaire tel que révisé le 18 novembre 2021. La Commission a
conclu que la mesure est nécessaire, appropriée et proportionnée pour remédier à une perturbation
grave de l'économie d'un État membre, conformément à l'article 107, paragraphe 3, point b), du
TFUE et aux conditions énoncées dans l'Encadrement Temporaire. Sur cette base, la Commission a
autorisé la mesure conformément aux règles en matières d'aides d'État. De plus amples informations
sur l'encadrement temporaire et les autres mesures prises par la Commission pour faire face à
l'impact économique de la pandémie de coronavirus sont disponibles ici. La version non-
confidentielle de la décision sera publiée sous le numéro d'affaire SA.63455 dans le registre des
aides d'État figurant sur le site web de la Commission consacré à la concurrence, dès que les
éventuels problèmes de confidentialité auront été résolus. (Pour plus d'informations: Arianna Podesta
– Tél.: +32 229 87024; Giulia Astuti – Tél.: +32 229 55344; Maria Tsoni – Tél.: +32 229 90526)

State aid: Commission approves €800,000 Romanian scheme to support sport clubs in the
municipality of Sfântu Gheorghe in the context of the coronavirus pandemic
The European Commission has approved a €800,000 (4 million RON) Romanian scheme to support
sport clubs in the municipality of Sfântu Gheorghe in the context of the coronavirus pandemic. The
scheme was approved under the State aid Temporary Framework. Under the scheme, the public
support will take the form of direct grants. The purpose of the measure is to mitigate the sudden
liquidity shortages that these companies are facing and to address the losses they incurred due to
the coronavirus outbreak and the restrictive measures put in place to limit the spread of the virus.
The Commission found that the Romanian scheme is in line with the conditions set out in the
Temporary Framework. In particular, the aid (i) will not exceed €2.3 million per beneficiary; and (ii)
will be granted no later than 30 June 2022. The Commission 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. 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 numbers
SA.64591 in the State aid register on the Commission's competition website once any confidentiality
issues have been resolved. (For more information: Arianna Podesta – Tel.: +32 229 87024; Giulia

Astuti – Tel.: +32 229 55344; Maria Tsoni – Tel.: +32 229 90526)

State aid: Commission approves €64 million Latvian wage subsidy scheme in the context of
the coronavirus pandemic
The European Commission has approved a €64 million Latvian scheme to support employers, self-
employed individuals and patent fee payers affected by the coronavirus pandemic and the restrictive
measures that the Latvian government had to implement to limit the spread of the virus. The
measure was approved under the State aid Temporary Framework. Under the scheme, the public
support will take the form of wage subsidies. It will cover 50% of the gross monthly salary for
employees and 50% of the business income for self-employed individuals and patent fee payers for
the period between October 2021 and January 2022. The monthly aid amount cannot exceed €700
per employee or other individual beneficiary. The purpose of the measure is to help employers to
cover their wage costs, allowing them to resume their activities and to avoid lay-offs. At the same
time, the measure aims to provide income support to self-employed and patent fee payers to help
them continue their activities during and after the pandemic. The Commission found that the Latvian
measure is in line with the conditions set out in the Temporary Framework. In particular, (i) the
wage subsidies aim at avoiding lay-offs and at preserving the economic activity of self-employed
individuals and patent fee payers; (ii) the support will not exceed 80% of the monthly gross salaries
of employees or the equivalent self-employed income; and (iii) the aid will be granted no later than
30 June 2022. 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.100598 in the State aid register on the
Commission's competition website once any confidentiality issues have been resolved. (For more
information: Arianna Podesta – Tel.: +32 229 87024; Giulia Astuti – Tel.: +32 229 55344; Maria
Tsoni – Tel.: +32 229 90526)

State aid: Commission approves €10 million Italian scheme to support entertainment
agencies and tourist villages in the context of the coronavirus pandemic
The European Commission has approved a €10 million Italian scheme to support entertainment
agencies and tourist villages in the context of the coronavirus pandemic. The measure was approved
under the State aid Temporary Framework. Under the scheme, the aid will take form of direct grants.
The aim of the scheme is to provide support for entertainment agencies and tourist villages that
suffered a decline in turnover over 2020, compared to 2019. The maximum aid amount per
beneficiary cannot exceed the difference between its revenues in 2019 and those in 2020. The
Commission found that the Italian scheme is in line with the conditions set out in the Temporary
Framework. In particular, the aid: (i) will not exceed €2.3 million per beneficiary; and (ii) will be
granted no later than 30 June 2022. The Commission 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 set out in 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.100722 in the State aid register on the Commission's
competition website once any confidentiality issues have been resolved. (For more information:
Arianna Podesta – Tel.: +32 229 87024; Giulia Astuti – Tel.: +32 229 55344; Maria Tsoni – Tel.:
+32 229 90526)

Aides d'État: la Commission autorise le régime français de « bonus-malus » sur les
cotisations patronales d'assurance chômage
La Commission européenne a autorisé, en vertu des règles de l'UE en matière d'aides d'État, le
régime de « bonus-malus » sur les cotisations patronales d'assurance chômage qui sera applicable
en France à partir du 1 er septembre 2022. Le taux des cotisations patronales d'assurance chômage
en France est actuellement un taux fixe, applicable à tous les secteurs, de 4,05%. Le régime de
« bonus-malus » introduit, pour certains secteurs, une modulation à la baisse ou à la hausse de ce
taux en fonction du « taux de séparation » des entreprises concernées. Le taux de séparation
correspond au nombre de fins de contrat de travail donnant lieu à une inscription au chômage, par
rapport à l'effectif moyen annuel de l'entreprise. La mesure s'applique aux sept secteurs où le taux
de séparation des entreprises est le plus élevé. Elle vise à inciter financièrement les employeurs à

recourir davantage à des contrats à durée indéterminée et à rallonger la durée des contrats à durée
déterminée. L'objectif est de favoriser la stabilité de l'emploi dans les sept secteurs concernés et de
diminuer le coût pour l'assurance chômage du recours aux contrats courts. La Commission a analysé
la mesure au regard de l'article 107(3)(c) du Traité sur le fonctionnement de l'Union européenne. La
Commission a constaté que la mesure contribuera au développement de l'activité économique des
sept secteurs concernés, sans affecter la concurrence et les échanges dans une mesure contraire à
l'intérêt commun. Sur cette base, la Commission a autorisé la mesure en vertu des règles de l'UE en
matière d'aides d'État. La version non confidentielle de la décision sera publiée sous le numéro
SA.63906 dans le registre des aides d'État figurant sur le site web de la Commission consacré à
la concurrence dès que les éventuels problèmes de confidentialité auront été résolus. (Pour plus
d'informations: Arianna Podesta – Tél.: +32 229 87024; Giulia Astuti – Tél.: +32 229 55344)

State aid: Commission approves broadening of existing Dutch scheme to support
technologies and projects reducing greenhouse gas emissions
The European Commission has approved, under EU State aid rules, the extension of the scope of a
Dutch aid scheme (Stimulering Duurzame Energieproductie en Klimaattransitie, 'SDE++') to support
projects to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the Netherlands. The original scheme was approved
by the Commission in December 2020. The Netherlands notified to the Commission certain
amendments to broaden the scope of the scheme. In particular, the modified scheme enables
support to additional technologies, which contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
Notably, the scheme will cover technologies for the capturing and use (CCU) of CO2 in the
horticultural sector, which requires CO2 for growing crops, vegetables and plants in greenhouses. By
capturing CO2 emitted from industrial installations, waste incineration plants and small-scale
biomass combustion installations and then using it for the needs of the greenhouse horticultural
sector, these technologies enable horticulturists to produce CO2 without the need of burning fossil
fuels. Furthermore, the amended scheme will allow support for the production of specific categories
of advanced renewable fuels used for transport produced from feedstock, to the extent that such
feedstock is line with the Renewable Energy Directive (RED II). Apart from these amendments, the
other conditions of the SDE++ scheme, which applies from 2020 to 2025, remain unchanged. This
includes using the competitive bidding process to select the beneficiaries and the budget of €30
billion. The Commission assessed the revised scheme under EU State aid rules, in particular
the 2014 Guidelines on State aid for environmental protection and energy. The Commission found
that the measure, as modified, will continue helping the Netherlands to achieve the goals set out in
the Dutch Climate Agreement and contributing to the EU objective of achieving climate neutrality by
2050, in line with the European Green Deal, without unduly distorting competition in the Single
Market. On this basis, the Commission concluded that the scheme, as modified, is in line with EU
State aid rules. The non-confidential version of the decision will be made available under the case
number SA.100461 in the State aid register on the Commission's competition website once any
confidentiality issues have been resolved. (For more information: Arianna Podesta – Tel.: +32 229
87024; Giulia Astuti – Tel.: +32 229 55344)

Concentrations: la Commission autorise l'acquisition de Suez par Veolia, sous conditions
La Commission européenne a autorisé, en vertu du règlement de l'UE sur les concentrations, le projet
d'acquisition de Suez par Veolia. Cette autorisation est subordonnée au respect intégral d'une série
d'engagements proposés par Veolia. Veolia et Suez sont deux leaders des secteurs du traitement de
l'eau et la gestion des déchets. L'enquête de la Commission a révélé que l'opération, telle que
notifiée initialement, aurait soulevé des problèmes de concurrence. Plus particulièrement l'opération
entraînerait d'importants chevauchements horizontaux sur divers marchés en France et dans l'Espace
économique européen (EEE). Afin de répondre aux préoccupations exprimées par la Commission en
matière de concurrence, Veolia a proposé une série d'engagements structurels qui éliminent
entièrement les problèmes de concurrence relevés par la Commission concernant l'acquisition de
Suez par Veolia. La décision de la Commission est subordonnée au respect intégral des engagements
contractés. Margrethe Vestager, vice-présidente exécutive, s'est exprimée en ces termes: « Grâce
aux engagements très complets mis en avant par Veolia, la Commission a pu autoriser ce
rapprochement de deux acteurs français historiques de l'eau et des déchets. Par la présente décision,
la Commission s'assure que cette opération n'aura pas d'effets néfastes sur la concurrence dans les
marchés de l'eau et des déchets, deux secteurs essentiels au Pacte Vert pour l'Europe et l'économie
circulaire. » Un communiqué de presse est disponible en ligne. (Pour plus d'informations: Arianna
Podesta – Tel.: +32 229 87024; Maria Tsoni – Tel.: +32 229 90526)

Concentrations : la Commission autorise la création d'une entreprise commune par Three
Gorges Corporation et TotalEnergies
La Commission européenne a approuvé, en vertu du règlement européen sur les concentrations, la
création d'une entreprise commune par Three Gorges Corporation (« 3G »), basée en Chine, et par
TotalEnergies S.E., basée en France. L'entreprise commune investira dans un petit réseau de
recharge des véhicules électriques, qu'elle construira et exploitera, et s'associera à des services de
plateforme de rechargement de tiers en Chine. 3G exerce ses activités principalement sur les
marchés du développement, de la construction et de l'exploitation de projets hydroélectriques et
d'autres projets ayant trait aux énergies renouvelables, comme l'énergie éolienne, l'énergie solaire et
l'utilisation des ressources en eau. TotalEnergies est une entreprise active au niveau mondial dans la
production et la fourniture d'énergies. Elle acquerra le contrôle de l'entreprise commune par
l'intermédiaire de sa filiale Total China, qui exerce ses activités dans divers secteurs en Chine, parmi
lesquels la prospection et la production de pétrole et de gaz naturel ainsi que les énergies
renouvelables. La Commission a conclu que l'opération envisagée ne soulèverait pas de problème de
concurrence compte tenu de son impact limité sur la structure du marché. L'opération a été
examinée dans le cadre de la procédure simplifiée du contrôle des concentrations. De plus amples
informations sont disponibles sur le site internet concurrence de la Commission, dans le registre
public des affaires sous le numéro d'affaire M.10536. (Pour plus d'informations: Arianna Podesta –
Tel.: +32 229 87024; Maria Tsoni – Tel.: +32 229 90526)

Mergers: Commission clears acquisition of Acciai Speciali Terni, Thyssenkrupp Stainless and
Thyssenkrupp Stainless Turkey by Acciaieria Arvedi
The European Commission has approved, under the EU Merger Regulation, the acquisition of Acciai
Speciali Terni S.p.A. (‘AST') of Italy, Thyssenkrupp Stainless GmbH of Germany and Thyssenkrupp
Stainless Turkey Metal Sanayi ve Ticaret A.S. (‘Thyssenkrupp Stainless Turkey') of Turkey, by
Acciaieria Arvedi S.p.A. of Italy. As part of the transaction, Acciaieria Arvedi will also acquire three
steel service centres located in Germany, Italy and Turkey. AST, Thyssenkrupp Stainless and
Thyssenkrupp Stainless Turkey manufacture, distribute and supply certain stainless steel products,
such as standard or custom size sheet or steel coils in all stainless steel grades, welded pipes and
tubes and rectangular profiles for several sectors. Acciaieria Arvedi manufactures and distributes
carbon steel products, including carbon steel coils, welded carbon steel tubes and cold drawn carbon
steel tubes and welded stainless steel tubes. The Commission concluded that the proposed
acquisition would raise no competition concerns because, following the transaction, sufficient
alternative players would remain active in the relevant markets. The transaction was examined under
the simplified merger review procedure. More information is available on the Commission's
competition website, in the public case register under the case number M.10513. (For more
information: Arianna Podesta – Tel.: +32 229 87024; Maria Tsoni – Tel.: +32 229 90526)

APPOINTMENTS

COLLEGE MEETING: The European Commission appoints a Principal Adviser for its
department for taxation and customs union
Yesterday, the European Commission has appointed Claes Bengtsson as Principal Adviser for
Strategy and Economic Analysis Coordination in the Directorate-General for Taxation and Customs
Union (DG TAXUD). The department is responsible for EU policies on taxation and customs and works
towards fairer taxation within the European Union. In his new position, Claes Bengtsson will provide
leadership and guidance on cross cutting economic analysis issues linked to DG TAXUD policies. He
will build on his extensive policy experience and deep knowledge of public finance, trade and
competition policies and their interaction with taxation initiatives and Customs Union policies. Claes
Bengtsson, a Danish official, is currently Head of Unit in the Chief Economist Team of the Directorate-
General for Competition (DG COMP). He worked for Executive Vice-President Vestager and
Commissioners de Gucht and Kroes in the fields of trade and competition. Previously, he was also
Deputy Head of Unit and Deputy Chief Economist in DG COMP. Prior to joining the Commission in
2002, Claes Bengtsson served as Head of Section at the Danish Ministry of Finance. He holds a Ph.D.
in economics. (For more information: Balazs Ujvari - Tel.: +32 229 54578; Claire Joawn - Tel.: +32
229 56859)

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Eastern Partnership Summit takes place in Brussels
Today, President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, and President of the European
Council, Charles Michel, will meet in Brussels with the leaders of EU Member States and Armenia,
Azerbaijan, Georgia, the Republic of Moldova, and Ukraine for the sixth Eastern Partnership Summit.
It will confirm the importance of the Eastern Partnership and provide a strategic outlook for a closer
cooperation between the EU and its Eastern partners. The Summit also represents an important
occasion to signal solidarity between the EU and the region, including the health and socio-economic
consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic. Leaders are expected to discuss a renewed agenda for the
Eastern Partnership, focused on recovery, resilience and reform, which will help increase partner
countries' resilience and their ability to withstand current and future challenges. It will be
underpinned by a €2.3 billion Economic and Investment plan in grants, blending and guarantees,
with a potential to mobilise up to €17 billion in public and private investments, to stimulate jobs,
growth and bring prosperity to the region. The Summit will also be attended by High
Representative/Vice-President Josep Borrell. A press conference, in which President von der Leyen
will participate, is foreseen for 22:00 CET. Follow it live on EbS. More information on the Summit is
available here and here. (For more information: Eric Mamer – Tel.: +32 229 94073; Peter Stano –
Tel.: +32 229 54553; Ana Pisonero Hernández – Tel.: +32 229 54320)

Commissioners Reynders and Johansson travel to Washington for EU-US Justice and Home
Affairs Ministerial Meeting
Commissioner for Justice, Didier Reynders, and Commissioner for Home Affairs, Ylva Johansson,
will be in Washington from 15 to 17 December 2021 for the EU-US Justice and Home Affairs
Ministerial Meeting. The Slovenian Presidency of the Council will be represented by Minister of Justice
Marjan Dikaučič and Minister of Interior Aleš Hojs. This meeting marks 20 years of EU-US dialogue on
justice and home affairs. It will allow for an exchange on a variety of topics from tackling cybercrime
and digital challenges, to future cooperation in the justice sector, cooperation on combatting
terrorism and extremism, and migration and mobility. At the end of the meeting, a joint statement
will be published, which will later be available here. Commissioner Reynders will hold a series of
bilateral meetings with Alejandro Mayorkas, Secretary of Homeland Security; Merrick Garland, US
Attorney General; Janet Yellen, Secretary of the Treasury; Gina Raimondo, Secretary of Commerce;
Lina Khan, Chair of the Federal Trade Commission; Alex Hoehn-Saric, Chair of the US Consumer
Product Safety Commission and Rohit Chopra, Director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.
He will also meet with Kristalina Georgieva, Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund. As
a practical follow-up to the EU-US commitment to combat ransomware and cyber threats made
during the last Justice and Home Affairs Ministerial Meeting, Commissioner Johansson will hold a
number of bilateral meetings, including with Alejandro Mayorkas and Merrick Garland. She will also
take part in an online event to discuss EU-US cooperation on cybercrime, in particular on operational
cooperation of law enforcement to combat ransomware, Secretary of Homeland Security Mayorkas
will also participate in the event. (For more information: Christian Wigand - Tel.: +32 229 62253;
Adalbert Jahnz - Tel.: +32 229 53156)

Liste des points prévus à l'ordre du jour des prochaines réunions de la Commission
Veuillez noter que ces informations sont données sous réserve de modifications.

Prochains événements de la Commission européenne
Eurostat: communiqués de presse

The Spokesperson's Service has re-opened the Berlaymont press room to a limited number
of journalists. For more information, please see here.
                                                                              MEX/21/6906