07/11/2018 (Agence Europe) – The European Commission approved on Wednesday 7 November the extension until 2022 of a Dutch guideline to support maritime transport. This guideline allows companies employing seafarers on board commercial cruise ships to benefit from a reduction in income taxes and social security contributions. This aid has also been extended to all vessels flying the flag of a European Economic Area Member State. Noting that the measure would contribute to the competitiveness of the EU maritime transport sector, while preserving employment and ensuring a level playing field, the European Commission considered it compatible with EU state aid law rules, in particular the guidelines on State aid to maritime transport. (LT)