Answer given by Ms Vestager on behalf of the Commission

19.5.2016

The Commission introduced new provisions to act against company relocations in its revised regional state aid rules, which entered into force on 1 July 2014. These provisions strengthen safeguards against relocations supported by state aid, by requiring notification of aid measures for beneficiaries that have closed down a similar activity in the European Economic Area (EEA) in the two years prior to application for aid, or are planning to close down such an activity within two years after completion of the aided investment.

The Commission is not aware of a possible aid granted to Cargotec. It will request information from the Polish authorities about the case, including the possible link to Cargotec's reported relocation. If it finds that the newly introduced anti-relocation provisions were violated, the Commission will take the necessary measures.