The European Commission has approved a Polish subsidised loan scheme to support large enterprises in the context of the coronavirus outbreak. The measure was approved under the State aid Temporary Framework adopted by the Commission on 19 March 2020, as amended on 3 April and 8 May 2020. The scheme is part of a wider Polish support programme, the so-called “Financial Shield for Large Enterprises.”
The total amount of loans that can be granted under the scheme is PLN 10 billion (approximately €2.2 billion). Under the scheme, the public support will take the form of subsidised loans at favourable interest rates. The scheme, which will be managed by the Polish Development Fund, is mostly targeted at large enterprises.
It will however also be open to certain small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) registered in Poland, which will be eligible based on criteria defined by Poland. The scheme aims at enhancing access to liquidity for companies that are severely affected by the outbreak, thus helping them continue their activities, start investments and maintain employment.
The Commission found that the Polish scheme is in line with the conditions set out in the Temporary Framework. The Commission therefore concluded that the measure is necessary, appropriate and proportionate to remedy a serious disturbance in the economy of a Member State, in line with Article 107(3)(b) TFEU and the conditions set out in the Temporary Framework.
Executive-Vice President Margrethe Vestager, in charge of competition policy, said: “The € 2.2 billion Polish subsidised loan scheme will enable Poland to further support companies affected by the coronavirus outbreak.The measure will help businesses cover their immediate liquidity needs and continue their activities, start investment and maintain employment during and after the outbreak.
We are working in close contact and cooperation with Poland, as with all Member States, to ensure that national support measures can be put in place as quickly and effectively as possible, in line with EU rules.”
Arianna Podesta –