20/12/2016 (Agence Europe) – On Monday 19 December, the European Commission approved the changes made to the Greek regional aid map. Greece wishes to add Kriti, Dytiki Makedonia, Ionia Nisia and Sterea Ellada to the map as regions that are eligible for up to 25% aid intensity, as in these regions, the GDP per capita is below 75% of the EU average. In seven regions, Greece also proposes to increase the aid intensity from 25% to 35% for large companies. In these regions, the GDP per capita represents less than 60% of the European average. Finally, for four regions, Greece has asked permission to increase the maximum aid intensity from 10% to 20% for large companies. The Commission approved all of these changes and the amended map will enter into force on 1 January 2017, to run until 31 December 2020. (EL)