A new EU State aid framework for land and multimodal transport adopted by the European Commission is aimed at supporting more sustainable transport modes for both passengers and freight.
The State aid Land and Multimodal Transport Guidelines (LMT Guidelines) and the Transport Block Exemption Regulation (TBER) replace the EU’s 2008 Guidelines on State aid for railway undertakings. They establish a coherent State aid framework covering a broad range of sustainable transport modes and aid measures, while maintaining safeguards to prevent undue distortions of competition.
“With today’s adoption of the Land and Multimodal Transport Guidelines and the Transport Block Exemption Regulation, we equip Member States with a modern and coherent State aid framework that supports sustainable and interoperable land transport while safeguarding fair competition”, said EC executive vice-president Teresa Ribera: “These rules simplify procedures and facilitate public support for sustainable transport solutions, thus contributing to a more efficient, affordable and greener European land transport.”
The LMT Guidelines set out the conditions under which State aid that has to be notified to the Commission for approval before it can be granted may be declared compatible with the internal market. The new Guidelines address sustainable land transport modes, clarify options for operating and investment aid, and introduce flexible aid rules and safeguards to help new operators enter and expand in sustainable land transport markets.
The TBER complements the Guidelines by exempting certain categories of aid in the rail, inland waterways and sustainable multimodal transport sectors from the requirement of prior notification to and approval by the Commission. This new exemption framework constitutes a major simplification, enabling Member States to quickly provide aid where conditions are met.
The instruments will enter into force on 30 March 2026. The TBER will be in place until 31 December 2034. There is no end date for the LMT Guidelines.
2008 Guidelines on State aid for railway undertakings
Revision of the Railway Guidelines inception impact assessment
