Press Release: State aid: Commission launches investigation into tax benefits granted by Spain for the purchase of ships

The European Commission has launched an in-depth investigation to check whether a Spanish scheme for the purchase of ships involving leasing and financing through tax relief is compatible with EU rules on state aid.

This scheme would enable maritime transport companies to purchase ships, under certain conditions, at prices that are between 20% and 30% lower than the market price. It appears, at this point in time, that this would result in advantages for the investors and companies taking part in the scheme. The launching of this in-depth investigation will allow all the interested parties to express their points of view. It does not prejudge the outcome of the procedure.