Press Release: State aid: Commission opens in-depth investigation into Maltese tonnage tax scheme

The European Commission has opened an in-depth investigation to examine whether the Maltese tonnage tax scheme is compatible with EU state aid rules. On the basis of available information, the Commission has concerns that the favourable tax treatment allowed by the EU Guidelines on state aid to maritime transport for the transport of passengers and freight by sea may have been extended to other categories of beneficiaries that are not suffering from the same handicaps and are therefore not entitled to lower taxes. The opening of an in-depth inquiry gives interested parties the possibility to comment on the measures. It does not prejudge the outcome of the investigation.