EU Commission Grants €24 Million to Boost Maritime Sector

The European Commission has given its approval to a Romanian initiative that will allocate up to €24 million (RON 118.6 million) to strengthen investments in maritime and inland ports, taking into account the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.

This approval falls under the State Aid Temporary Crisis and Transition Framework. The financial assistance will be provided through direct grants, with specific amounts allocated, and will partially utilize cohesion funds to support private port operators. The objective is to enhance the operational efficiency of the "Ukraine-EU Solidarity Lanes".

The initiative aims to address the capacity limitations of port infrastructure by providing resources for short-distance freight transportation equipment and expanding temporary storage capabilities. Additionally, it seeks to facilitate the smooth transportation and transit of grain through Romanian ports, which requires urgent support to manage the increasing flow of goods.

The European Commission considers the Romanian strategy to be essential and appropriate in rectifying a significant disruption in the economy of a member state. It aligns with Article 107(3)(b) TFEU and the provisions of the Temporary Crisis and Transition Framework, thus receiving approval under EU State aid regulations.

Commissioner Didier Reynders, responsible for competition policy, stated, "This €24 million scheme will enable Romania to assist private port operators affected by the current crisis, allowing them to enhance port capacity and accommodate the growing traffic flows."

Reynders added, "By implementing this measure, the operational capacity of sea and river ports in Romania, which serve as transit points for goods to and from Ukraine, will be streamlined. This will contribute to the EU's efforts to stabilize the global food supply market and improve food security worldwide."