Subsidy control and state aid

Whenever a government agency or other public body provides financial support to a commercial organisation, it is necessary to consider whether such support is fully compliant with all applicable subsidy control rules, at both a domestic and international level. Similarly, any public support provided to businesses operating within the EU and/or Northern Ireland must be compatible with applicable state aid rules under EU and EFTA law. 

Subsidy control and state aid rules may apply in a wide range of scenarios, including where a public body intends to invest in new infrastructure, provide incentives to companies, set up a scheme to stimulate growth in a target sector or region and many other similar situations.

More than just a legal adviser, we focus on using the subsidy control and EU state aid rules as tools to help our clients achieve their commercial objectives. When faced with subsidy control and state aid risks and issues, we work collaboratively with our clients to develop tailored solutions.

We have a wealth of experience advising both private organisations and public bodies on the investment of public funding in compliance with subsidy control and state aid rules. We understand the UK, EU and wider international WTO regimes and excel at translating this into practical solutions. We have particular experience of projects involving interlinking subsidy control, state aid, competition and public procurement issues.