Press Release: Internal Market: Commission acts to remove restrictions on investment in agricultural real estate in Austria

The European Commission acted on 18 March 2010 to remove restrictions on investment in agricultural real estate in Austria. Under regional rules, an authorisation procedure is required for the acquisition of land previously used for agricultural purposes and of shares in companies owning agricultural plots. In the Commission's view, the restrictions are unjustified and breach EU principles of free movement of capital and freedom of establishment. The Commission's request to Austria takes the form of a "reasoned opinion", the second stage of the infringement procedure under Article 258 of the EU Treaty. If the national authorities do not reply satisfactorily within two months, the Commission may decide to refer the matter to the Court of Justice