G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.8  
 
2 August 2023 
(23-5263) Page: 1/38 
Committee on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures  Original: English  
 
 
SUBSIDIES  
NEW AND FULL NOTIFICATION PURSUANT TO ARTICLE XVI:1  
OF THE GATT 1994 AND ARTICLE 25 OF THE AGREEMENT  
ON SUBSIDIES AND COUNTERVAILING MEASURES  
EUROPEAN UNION 
Addendum  
The following addendum to the notification of the European Union dated and received on 
14 July 2023 relates to the subsidy programmes of Estonia . 
_______________  
  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.8  
- 2 - 
  TABLE OF CONTENTS  
1   AID FOR RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT  ................................ ................................ ..... 3 
1.1   R & D Financing Programme  ................................ ................................ ........................  3 
2   OTHER HORIZONTAL AID  ................................ ................................ ............................  5 
2.1   Support for the Participation of Entrepreneurs in Trade Fairs  ................................ ............  5 
2.2   Training Programmes for Companies  ................................ ................................ ............  5 
2.3   Guarantee Scheme for Companies  ................................ ................................ ...............  6 
2.4   Start-Up Programme  ................................ ................................ ................................ .. 7 
2.5   Employment Aid  ................................ ................................ ................................ ........  8 
2.6   Loan Scheme for Companies  ................................ ................................ ......................  10 
2.7   Consultancy Programme  ................................ ................................ ............................  10 
2.8   Subsidies for Companies in the context of COVID -19 pandemic  ................................ ....... 12 
3   REGIONAL AID  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..........  14 
3.1   Programme of Investment Support  ................................ ................................ .............  14 
4   ENVIRONMENTAL AID  ................................ ................................ ...............................  16 
4.1   Environmental Programme  ................................ ................................ .........................  16 
4.2   Support for electricity produced from renewable sources and efficient cogeneration  ...........  18 
4.3   Subsidy for Biomethane Production.  ................................ ................................ ............  18 
4.4   Exemption on Excise Duty for Electricity for Electro -intensive Companies.  .........................  19 
4.5   Exemption on Excise Duty for Natural Gas for Companies with Intensive Gas Consumption.  20 
4.6   Temporary Use of Special Purpose Diesel for Companies Holding an Extraction Permit  ........  20 
5   DOMESTIC SUPPORT IN AGRICULTURE  ................................ ................................ ..... 21 
5.1   General Services  ................................ ................................ ................................ ...... 21 
5.2   Public Stockholding For Food Security Purposes  ................................ ............................  24 
5.3   Domestic food AID  ................................ ................................ ................................ .... 24 
5.4   Decoupled income support  ................................ ................................ .........................  26 
5.5   Income insurance and income safety - net programmes  ................................ ..................  26 
5.6   Government financial participation in income insurance and  
income  safety - net programmes  ................................ ................................ .........................  27 
5.7   Structural adjustment assistance provided through resource reti rement programmes  .........  28 
5.8   Payment for Relief from Natural Disasters  ................................ ................................ .... 28 
5.9   Structural  Adjustment Assistance Provided Through Investment Aids  ...............................  29 
5.10   Payment Under Environmental Pr ograms  ................................ ................................ .... 30 
5.11   Insurance support  ................................ ................................ ................................ ... 32 
5.12   Fuel Tax Exemption  ................................ ................................ ................................ . 32 
5.13   Short -Term Loans and LOAN Guarantees  ................................ ................................ .... 33 
5.14   Transitional National Aid (coupled)  ................................ ................................ ............  34 
5.15   Product specific support. Exceptional temporary support  ................................ ...............  35 
6   DOMESTIC SUPPORT IN FISHERIES SECTOR  ................................ .............................  36 
European Maritime and Fisheries Fund (EMFF) 2014 -2020 SUPPORT  ................................ ........  37 
  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.8  
- 3 - 
  1  AID FOR RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT  
1.1  R & D Financing Programme  
1. Period covered by the notification  
2021, 2022.  
2. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
The programme aims at increasing the competitiveness of companies and research and development 
institutions through the support of  R&D projects leading to new technologies, products, processes 
and services.  
3. Background and authority for the subsidy  
Enterprise Estonia (Foundation ).  
Estonian Research Council . 
City of Tartu .  
Ministry of Defence .  
Tehnopol Science and Business Park (Foundation) .  
State Shared Service Center ( SSSC ). 
4. Legislation under which subsidy is granted  
Regulation of Minister of Entrepreneurship and Information  Technology No . 46 of 27 July 2018 .  
"Terms and conditions of the Estonian -Norwegian cooperation program "GREEN ICT" basic support 
scheme" adopted by the administrative decision of Management Borad of Enterprise Estonia on 
10 January 2020 .  
"Terms and conditions of the Estonian -Norwegian cooperation programm "Green ICT " of small 
projects round ".  
Regulation of Minister of Entrepreneurship and Information Technology No . 27 of 17 April 2019 .  
Regulation of Minister of Entrepreneurship and Information Technology No . 52 of 10 
September  2018.  
Regulation of Minister of Entrepreneurship and Information Technology No . 23 of 21 March 2022 .  
Decree of Minister of Education and Science No . 486 of 31 December 2015 .  
Guidelines a pproved by Directive No. 1.1 -4/15/1 of the Board of Estonian Research Council of 
5 January 2015 .  
Guidelines approved by Directive No. 1.1 -4/21/76 of the Board of Estonian Research Council of 
2 September 2021 .  
Regulation of Tartu City Council No . 55 of 21 February 2019 .  
Decree of Minister of Defence No . 319 of 4 June 2016 .  
Regulation of Minister of Defence No . 23 of 13 November 2019 .  
Contract between Tehnopol and Tallinn City Enterprise Department No . 4-11/41 of 21 April 2020 . 
Contract between Tehnopol and Aiotex OÜ No . 5-3/151 .  
Contract between Tehnopol and R8 Technologies OÜ No . 5-3/149 .  
Contract between Tehnopol and Bikeep OÜ No . 5-3/152 .  
Contract between Tehnopol and AS Teede Tehnokeskus .  
Contract between Tehnopol and Fusebox OÜ No . 5-3/154 .  
Contract between Tehnopol and Tallinn Strategic Management Office No . 5-3/39 of 19 April 2021 . 
Contract between Tehnopol and Thinnect OÜ No . 5-3/202 of 8 November 2021 .  
Contract between Tehnopol and Krattworks OÜ No . 5-3/201 of 8 November 2021 .  
Contract between Tehnopol and Ringo Eco OÜ No . 5-3/203 of 23 November 2021 .  
Contract between Tehnopol and Solintel OÜ No . 5-3/207 of 12 January 2022 . G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.8  
- 4 - 
  Contract between Tehnopol and Tallinn Strategic Management Office No . 5-3/52 of 17 June 2022 . 
Contract between Tehnopol and Koduandur OÜ No . 5-3/246 of 17 November 2022 .  
Contract between Tehnopol and FOB OÜ No . 5-3/251 of 19 December 2022 .  
Contract between Tehnopol and 10Lines OÜ No . 5-3/244 of 18 November 2022 . 
Contract between Tehnopol and Fudloop OÜ No . 5-3/245 of 17 November 2022 . 
Contract between Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications and Tehnopol No . 18-9/49 of 
24 January 2022 .  
Regulation of Minister of Education and Science No . 34 of 2 October 2020 .  
5. Form of the subsidy  
Grant.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
In case of Enterprise Estonia: subsidies are provided to SMEs and large companies which undertake  
experimental development projects, industrial research projects and research infrastructure projects 
up to 80% of project 's eligible costs. Subsidies are also provided for innovation projects of SMEs, for 
process and organisational innovation and for digitalisation and automatization of processes.  
Maximum amount of support is EUR 2.000 million . 
For important projects of common Eu ropean interest subsidies are provided to companies which 
undertake projects comprising of industrial research, experimental development and first industrial 
deployment.  
In case of support from Estonian Research Council: subsidies are provided to recruit d evelopment 
advisers to participate in partnership calls for transnational research projects.  
In case of support from City of Tartu subsidies are provided for digitalisation and automatization of 
processes.  
Ministry of Defence provides subsidies for experim ental development projects and for SME 
innovation. Experimental development projects can be supported up to 45% of eligible costs. SME 
innovation projects can be supported up to 50% of eligible costs.  
In case of foundation Tehnopol support is granted for t esting and piloting projects in the frames of 
Smart City Tallinn Innovation Fund. Maximum grant amount is EUR 30,000 per project.  Support is 
also granted to implement the framework program to improve the ability of companies to adopt 
artificial intelligence (AI), to enhance product development and research development activities and 
to generate new businesses . 
In case of SSSC subsidies are provided to companies for industrial research and experimental 
development up to 70% of eligible costs.  
7. Subsidy per unit, or in cases where this is not possible, the total amount or the annual amount 
budgeted for the subsidy  
Fiscal year 2021 – EUR 2 .415 million  
Fiscal year 2022 – EUR 3 .404 million  
8. Duration of a subsidy  and/or any other time limits attached to it  
Different time limits apply to different subsidies.  
9. Statistical data permitting  an assessment of the trade effects of a subsidy  
N/A. G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.8  
- 5 - 
  2  OTHER HORIZONTAL AID  
2.1  Support for the Participation of Entrepreneurs in Trade Fairs  
1. Period covered by the notification  
2021, 2022.  
2. Policy objective and/ or purpose of the subsidy  
To organise and support the participation of entrepreneurs in trade fairs.  
3. Background and authority  for the subsidy  
Tallinn Strategic Management Office  
4. Legislation under which subsidy is granted  
Regulation of Tallinn City Council No . 3 of 23 January 2014  
Regulation of Tallinn City Council No . 12 of 5 February 2014  
Regulation of Tallinn City Council No . 6 of 21 March 2019  
5. Form of the subsidy  
Grant.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
Subsidy is paid to the participating company (or sole proprietor) as a payment for participation costs, 
stand rental and other similar expenses. The subsidy can cover up to 100% of the expenses.  
7. Subsidy per unit, or in cases where this is not possible, the total amount or the annual amount 
budgeted for the subsidy  
Fiscal year 2021 – EUR 0 .029 million   
Fiscal year 2022 – EUR 0 .049 million   
8. Duration of a subsidy and/or any other time limits attached to it  
Programs are valid till 31.12 .2023.  
9. Statistical  data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of a subsidy  
N/A. 
2.2  Training Programmes for Companies  
1. Period covered by the notification  
2021, 2022.  
2. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
The aim of the training support is to promote the in -service training and knowledge of start -ups (in 
the frames of incubation services) and other companies.  
3. Background and authority for the subsidy  
Tallinn Strategic Management Office .  
Incubator Tallinn .  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.8  
- 6 - 
  Estonian Unemployment Insurance Fund . 
Enterprise Estonia (Foundation) .  
State Shared Service Center ( SSSC ). 
4. Legislation under  which subsidy is granted  
Regulation of Tallinn City Council No . 21 of 31 October 2020 . 
Annex to the 7 October 2021 Decision of Tallinn City Council . 
Labour Market Services and Benefits Act . 
Government Regulation No . 130 of 17 November 2016 .  
Government Regulation No . 87 of 19 November 2020 . 
Decree of Minister for Health and Labour No . 222 of 4 December 2014 .  
Decree of Minister for Health and Labour No . 69 of 26 June 2020 . 
Decree of Minister for Health and Labour No . 71 of 10 June 2021 .  
Decree of Minister for Health and Labour No . 26 of 7 February 2022 .  
Decree of Minister of Social Protection and Minister of Health and Labour No . 57 of 27 March 2015 . 
Decree of Minister of Social Affairs No . 120 of 12 December 2020 .  
Decree of Minister of Social Protection and Minister of Health and Labour No . 36 of 17 February  2022.  
Regulation of Minister of Entrepreneurship and Information Technology No . 27 of 17 Apri l 2019 . 
Regulation of Minister of Education and Research No . 16 of 10 My 2018 . 
5. Form of the subsidy  
Grant.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
The subsidy is provided to companies to cover up to 100% of eligible costs.  
7. Subsidy per unit, or in cases where this is not possible, the total amount or the annual amount 
budgeted for the subsidy  
Fiscal year 2021 – EUR 1 .597 million  
Fiscal year 2022 – EUR 1 .941 million  
8. Duration of a subsidy and/or any other time limits attached to it  
Different time limits app ly to different programmes.  
9. Statistical  data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of a subsidy  
N/A. 
2.3  Guarantee Scheme for Companies  
1. Period covered by the notification  
2021, 2022.  
2. Policy objective and/or purpose  of the subsidy  
To promote SMEs and large companies by supporting their access to capital by securing their bank 
loans.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.8  
- 7 - 
  3. Background and authority  for the subsidy  
Foundation KredEx . 
Rural Development Foundation . 
4. Legislation under which subsidy is granted  
Support of Enterprise and State Loan Gu arantees Act . 
Conditions for guaranteeing business loans ( de minimis aid scheme ) approved by the Decree of the 
Head of Foundation Kredex No. 7 2-üld of 25 August 2015 .  
Decree of the Head of Kredex Foundation No. 8 -üld of 25 January 2021 to amend the Decrees of 
25 August 2015 and 19 June 2018 .  
Rural Development and Agricultural Market Regulation Act . 
Agreement of 30 March 2015 amending Management Contract No. 2 97 between Ministry of Rural 
Affairs and Rural Development Foundation . 
Decision of Superviso ry Board of Rural Development Foundation of 11 December 2020 .  
5. Form of the subsidy  
Loan and lease guarantees.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
The guarantees of Foundation KredEx are meant for companies whose value of the collateral property 
or self-financing is not sufficient for getting a bank loan or who do not have a long history of 
operation. Guarantees are mainly provided to small and medium sized companies (SMEs), loans are 
secured up to 7 5% of the loan amount.  
Rural Development Foundation  issues a guarantee for the debt obligation of an entrepreneur (loan, 
leasing, etc). A guarantee can be received by a SME. The guarantee covers not more than 80% of 
the loan and does not exceed EUR 2.5 – 3.0 million . 
7. Subsidy per unit, or in cases where thi s is not possible, the total amount or the annual amount 
budgeted for the subsidy  
Fiscal year 2021 – state aid amount of guarantees EUR 0.632 million .  
Fiscal year 2022 – state aid amount of guarantees EUR 0.631 million .  
8. Duration of a subsidy and/or any o ther time limits attached to it  
Different time limits apply to different programmes.  
9. Statistical  data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of a subsidy  
N/A. 
2.4  Start -Up Programme  
1. Period covered by the notification  
2021, 2022.  
2. Policy objective  and/or purpose of the subsidy  
To provide individuals with the incentive to start business and create new jobs. Likewise, the 
programme intends to increase the survival ratio of new enterprises.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.8  
- 8 - 
  3. Background and authority  for the subsidy  
Estonian Un employment Insurance Fund .  
For City of Narva - Department for Development and Economy .  
4. Legislation under  which subsidy is granted  
Labour Market Services and Benefits Act . 
Decree of Minister for Health and Labour No. 2 22 of 4 December 2014 .  
Decree of Min ister for Health and Labour No. 6 9 of 26 June 2020 .  
Decree of Minister for Health and Labour No. 7 1 of 10 June 2021 .  
Decree of Minister for Health and Labour No. 2 6 of 7 February 2022 . 
Decree of Minister of Social Protection and Minister of Health and Labour No. 5 7 of 27 March 2015 
Decree of Minister of Social Affairs No. 1 20 of 12 December 2020 .  
Decree of Minister of Social Protection and Minister of Health and Labour No. 36 of 17 Febr uary 2022.  
Decree of Minister of Social Affairs No. 1 19 of 12 December 2020 .  
Government Regulation No. 8 7 of 19 November 2020 . 
Regulation of Narva City Council N o. 18 of 25 October 2018  
5. Form of the subsidy  
Grant.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
In case of City of Narva the applicant has to be located in Narva in order to stimulate and develop 
business start -ups and to support start -ups in Narva.  
The grant amount will not exceed EUR 3,000 and 50% of the eligible costs in case of City of Narva.  
Estonian Unemployment Insurance Fund business start up subsidy is for registered unemployed 
persons who want to start business activities.  
7. Subsidy per unit, or in cases where this is not possible, the total amount o r the annual amount 
budgeted for the subsidy  
Fiscal year 2021 – EUR 3.144 million . 
Fiscal year 2022 – EUR 0.313 million . 
8. Duration of a subsidy  and/or any other time limits attached to it  
Different time limits apply to different subsidies.  
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of a subsidy  
N/A. 
2.5  Employment Aid  
1. Period covered by the notification  
2021, 2022.  
2. Policy objective and/or purpose  of the subsidy  
The aim of the programme is the integration of unemployed people and people belongi ng to risk 
groups to the labour market, to increase the efficiency and quality of labour market services; to 
stimulate job -creation.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.8  
- 9 - 
  3. Background and authority  for the subsidy  
Estonian Unemployment Insurance Fund . 
State Shared Services Centre ( SSSC ). 
4. Legisla tion under which subsidy is granted  
Labour Market Services and Benefits Act . 
Government Regulation No. 1 30 of 17 November 2016 .  
Government Regulation No. 8 7 of 19 November 2020 . 
Decree of Minister for Health and Labour No. 2 22 of 4 December 2014 .  
Decree of  Minister of Social Affairs No. 4 9 of 6 August 2019 .  
Decree of Minister for Health and Labour No. 6 9 of 26 June 2020 .  
Decree of Minister for Health and Labour No. 7 1 of 10 June 2021 .  
Decree of Minister for Health and Labour No. 2 6 of 7 February 2022 . 
Decree of Minister of Social Protection and Minister of Health and Labour No. 5 7 of 27 March 2015 . 
Decree of Minister of S ocial Affairs No. 1 20 of 12 December 2020 .  
Decree of Minister of Social Protection and Minister of Health and Labour No. 36 of 17 February  2022.  
Government Regulation No. 5 8 of 23 February 2017 .  
Regulation of Minister for Health and Labour No. 2 0 of 8 May 2018 .  
5. Form of the subsidy  
Grant.  
6. To whom  and how the subsidy is provided  
Subsidies are provided to companies and sole proprietors for recruitment of disadvantaged and 
disabled workers, to cover additional costs of employment of disabled workers (adapting premises 
or equipment).  
Wage subsidy is a benefit payable to employers for employing unemployed persons who belong in 
risk groups (e.g. long -term unemployed, ex -prisoners). The size of the subsid y is 50% of the wage 
or salary of the employee but not more than the minimum monthly wage established by the 
Government. The subsidy is paid for 6 months.  
Subsidy for the adaptation of premises and equipment is provided in case of recruitment of 
disadvanta ged workers. The size of the subsidy is 5 0% of the cost of the adjustment but not in an 
amount exceeding the upper limit established for support . 
In case of subsidy of SSSC  the purpose of the support is to encourage less competitive target groups 
to find employment and remain in the labor market. The maximum amount is EUR 400,000 per 
project, support may be granted up to 100% of the eligible costs of the project. The benefici ary may 
be legal person, government agency or a state agency administered by it or local government unit.   
7. Subsidy per unit, or in cases where this is not possible, the total amount or the annual amount 
budgeted for the subsidy  
Fiscal year 2021 – EUR 4.965  million . 
Fiscal year 2022 – EUR 6.646 million . 
8. Duration of a subsidy and/or any other time limits attached to it  
Different time limits apply to different subsidies.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.8  
- 10 - 
  9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of a subsidy  
N/A. 
2.6  Loan Scheme for Companies  
1. Period covered by the notification  
2021, 2022.  
2. Policy objective and/or purpose  of the subsidy  
The loan is aimed at improving the access of SMEs to capital.  
3. Background and authority  for the subsidy  
Rural Development Foundation .  
4. Legislation under which  subsidy is granted  
Rural Development and Agricultural Market Regulation Act . 
Management Contract No. 1 0. 
Agreement No. 1 57 amending Management Contract No. 1 0. 
Decision of Supervisory Board of Rural Development Foundation of 11 December 2020 .  
5. Form of the subsidy  
Loans.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy  is provided  
Loans are meant for sustainable SMEs for investment and working capital.  
7. Subsidy per unit, or in cases where this is not possible, the total amount or the annual amount 
budgeted for the subsidy  
Fiscal year 2021 – state aid amount of loans EUR 0.053 million .  
Fiscal year 2021 – state aid amount of loans EUR 0.0 million . 
8. Duration of a subsidy and/or any other time limits attached to it  
The program of Rural Development Foundation is valid till 31 December 2023.  
9. Statistical  data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of a subsidy  
N/A. 
2.7  Consultancy Programme  
1. Period covered by the notification  
2021, 2022.  
2. Policy objective and/or purpose  of the subsidy  
To enable to purchase consultations from professional consultants, to prepare applications  or to get 
information regarding Intellectual Property and to organise conferences.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.8  
- 11 - 
  3. Background and authority for the subsidy  
Estonian Unemployment Insurance Fund . 
Estonian Research Council . 
Foundation Kredex .  
Incubator Tallinn .  
Foundation Ida -Viru Enterprise Center ( IVEC).  
State Shared Service Center ( SSSC ).  
Tallinn University of Technology .  
Education and Youth Board .  
4. Legislation under  which subsidy is granted  
Labour Market Services and Benefits Act . 
Government Regulation No. 1 30 of 17 November 2016 . 
Government Regulation No. 8 7 of 19 November 2020 . 
Decree of Minister or Education and Science of 30 December 2015. 
Contract between Ministry of Finance and Foundation Kredex No. 1 4-8/9486 -1 of 14 December 2018 
and No. 1 4-8/4026 of 24 May 2022 .  
Contract on the use of support for educational technology sta rt-ups between SA KredEx and Ministry 
of Economic Affairs and Communication (aid scheme) .  
Contract between Tallinn City Enterprise Department and Foundation Tallinn Business Incubators of 
30 April 2019 .  
Regulation of Tallinn City Council of 5 May 206 No. 13.  
Programme of IVEC of 1 February 2019 .  
Decree of Minister of Foreign Trade and Entrepreneurship No. 1 9-007 of 22 January 2019 . 
Contract between Ministry of Economic Affairs and Tallinn University of Tech nology No. 1 8-9/176 of 
27 April 2021 .  
Regulation of Government of 5 July 2018 No. 5 5.  
5. Form of the subsidy  
Grant.  
6. To whom  and how the subsidy is provided  
In case of Estonian Unemployment Insurance Fund the subsidy is provided for individual consultancy 
or consultancy in mentor club for persons  who have got support for starting business.  
In case of support from Estonian Research Council maximum grant amount is up to EUR 200,000. 
In case of Foundation Kredex the subsidy is granted to  support the activities of business and startup 
incubators in Ida -Viru County, through the development of the ecosystem of start -ups and to support 
educational technology start -ups. 
In case of Incubator Tallinn the support is granted for incubation service s. 
In case of IVEC the maximum support is EUR 200,000, all size of companies are eligible.  
In case of SSSC support is provided in the form of consultancy for development of small and 
medium -sized enterprises and for strengthening competitiveness of regions .  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.8  
- 12 - 
  In case of Tallinn University of Technology support is granted in the frames of programme "AI & 
Robotics Estonia (EDIH) ". 
7. Subsidy  per unit, or in cases where this is not possible, the total amount or the annual amount 
budgeted for the subsidy  
Fiscal year 2021 – EUR 0.086 million . 
Fiscal year 2022 – EUR 0.208 million . 
8. Duration of a subsidy  and/or any other time limits attached to it  
Different time limits apply to different subsidies.  
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of a subsidy  
N/A. 
2.8  Subsidies for Companies in the context of COVID -19 pandemic  
1. Period covered by the notification  
2021, 2022.  
2. Policy objective  and/or purpose  of the subsidy  
To remedy a serious disturbance in the economy because of COVID -19 pandemic.  
3. Background and authority  for the subsidy  
Enterprise Estonia (Foundation) .  
State Shared Service Center ( SSSC ).  
Foundation Kredex . 
Rural Development Foundation .  
Tallinn City Government .  
Ministry of Finance .  
Estonian Unemployment Insurance Fund . 
4. Legislation under  which subsidy is granted  
State Budget Act . 
Regulation of Government No. 3 1 of 28 April 2020 .  
Regulation of Minister of Foreign Trade and Information Technology No. 6 8 of 5 November 2020 . 
Regulation of Minister of Foreign Trade and Information Technology No. 2  of 20 January 2021 .  
Regulation of Minister of Entrepreneurship and Information Technolog y No. 1 6 of 21 April 2021 . 
Regulation of Minister of Culture No. 1 5 of 4 May 2021 .  
Support of Enterprise and State Loan Act . 
Decision of Management Board of Kredex No. 1  of 29 April 2020 .  
Conditions of emergency business measures approved by the Council of Kredex on 19 March 2021 
(aid scheme) .  
Conditions of emergency business measures approved by the Council of Kredex on 13 August 2021 
(aid scheme) . 
Conditions of emergency business measures approved by the Council of Kredex on 21 February 2022 
(Condition s of extraordinary proportional guarantee for new loans) .  
Rural Development and Agr icultural Market Regulation  Act. G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.8  
- 13 - 
  Agreement of 11 May 2020 No. 1 21 between Ministry of Rural Affairs and Rural Development 
Foundation .  
Decision of Management Board of Rural Development Foundation of 15 May 2020 .  
Decision of Management Board of Rural Development Foundation of 5 March 2021 . 
Amendment Agreement No. 9 0 to Agreement of 11 May 2020 No. 1 21 between Ministry of Rural 
Affairs and Rural Development Foundation . 
"Procedure for processing loans of the COVID -19 financial instrument" approved by the Decision of 
the Board of Rural Development Foundation . 
Amendment Agreement No. 1 84 to Agreement of 11 May 2020 No. 1 21 between Ministry of Rural 
Affairs and Rural Developm ent Foundation . 
"Procedure for processing guarantees of COVID -19" approved by the Decision of the Management 
Board of Rural Development Foundation of 9 April 2021 and 6 August 2021 . 
Regulation of the Tallinn City Government No. 3 1 of 22 October 2020 .  
Regulation of the Tallinn City Government No. 3  of 5 January 2022 .  
Decree of Minister of Finance No. 8 4 of 17 May 2021 . 
Decree of Minister of Finance No. 2 36 of 31 December 2020 . 
Decree of Minister of Finance No. 3  of 6 January 2021 .  
Government Regulation No. 8 7 of 19 November 2020 .   
5. Form of the subsidy  
Grant, loan, guarantee .  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
Support is granted to companies for the mitigation and resolution of the crisis related to the spread 
of the coronavirus causing COVID -19 and the consequent emergency situation.  
In case of Enterprise Estonia grants are provided according to European Commission Temporary 
State Aid Framework section 3.1 to undertakings in tourism and directly related sectors and to  
undertakings in tourism and retail sectors.  
Maximum aid amount per company is EUR 2.300 million.  
In case of SSSC support is granted to operators of experience centers and the owners of buildings 
used for the organization of conferences and other such even ts for emergency assistance due to the 
restrictions resulting from the spread of the coronavirus that causes the disease COVID -19. The 
basis for calculating the subsidy amount is the average turnover of 2.5 months earned in 2019 
according to the months of operation, but not more than  EUR 150,000 per applicant.  
In case of Kredex subsidised interest rates for loans, loans and loan guarantees are provided to 
SMEs and large companies in view of the disruption caused by the COVID -19 outbreak. Maximum 
duration of  the loan or guarantee is 6 years. Kredex grants aid according to European Commission 
Temporary State Aid Framework sections 3.1, 3.2 and 3.3.   
Rural Development Foundation provides aid in the form of guarantees on loans and subsidised 
interest rates for l oans in view of the disruption caused by the COVID -19 outbreak both for SMEs 
and large companies. The guarantees or loans relate to investment and working capital loans or 
needs. Maximum duration of loans and guarantees is 6 years. Rural Development Founda tion grants 
aid according to European Commission Temporary State Aid Framework sections 3.1, 3.2 and 3.3.   
In case of Tallinn City Government support is granted to entrepreneurs in the city center district 
whose economic activity has been negatively affect ed due to exceptional circumstances caused by 
the outbreak of the COVID -19 virus and who uses the city property. In the case of rented city 
property, the rent is reduced from 30% to 100%.  
In case of Minister of Finance support is granted to entrepreneurs of Ida -Viru County for partial 
compensation of damages resulting from the outbreak of COVID -19.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.8  
- 14 - 
  In case of Estonian Unemployment Insurance Fund support is granted to entrepreneurs whose 
employee's workplace is in Harju county or Ida -Viru County according to the employment register 
(as of December 22, 2020) in the form of wage support due to restrictions to prevent the disease  
COVID -19. The amount of support paid to the entrepreneur is 1.5 times the salary cost of the 
employee 's salary cost in November 2020 , but no more than EUR 180,000 per entrepreneur.  
7. Subsidy per unit, or in cases where this is not possible, the total amount or the annual amount 
budgeted for the subsidy  
Fiscal year 2021 – grants EUR 80.238 million ; loans and subsidised interest rates 
EUR 28.052  million ; guarantees EUR 37.911 million . 
Fiscal year 2022 – grants EUR 0.654 million , loans and subsidised interest rates EUR 0.195 million ; 
guarantees EUR 29.552 million . 
8. Duration of a subsidy  and/or any other time limits attached to it  
Support is granted till 30 June 2022.  
9. Statistical data permitting  an assessment of the trade effects of a subsidy  
N/A. 
3  REGIONAL AID  
3.1  Programme of Investment Support  
1. Period covered by the notification  
2021, 2022.  
2. Policy objective and/ or purpose of the subsidy  
To create non -agricultural jobs and revive the life in rural and other areas through the investment 
support for the diversification of economic activities in these areas.  To promote business 
environment outside large cities.  
3. Background and authority  for th e subsidy  
Agricultural Registers and Information Board (ARIB) .  
Enterprise Estonia (Foundation) .  
State Shared Service Center (SSSC) .  
Rõuge Rural Municipality Government .  
Foundation KredEx .  
Lääne -Nigula Rural Municipality Government .  
Põlva Rural Municipality Government .  
Consumer Protection and Technical Regulatory Authority .  
Tallinn Strategic Management Office . 
For City of Narva - Department for Development and Economy .  
Ministry of Internal Affairs .  
Saku Rural Municipality Government .  
4. Legisla tion under which subsidy is granted  
Regulation of the Minister of Rural Affairs  No. 1 1 of 23 October  2015. 
Regulation of Lääne -Nigula Rural Municipality Government No. 3 3 of 21 August 2018 .  
Regulation of Minister of Entrepreneurship and Information Technology No. 3 0 of 6 June 2017 .  
Regulation of Rõuge Rural Municipality Government No. 3 1 of 18 September 2018 .  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.8  
- 15 - 
  Regulation of Minister of Foreign Trade and Information Technology No. 4 9 of 5 Aug ust 2019 . 
Procedure approved by Board of Enterprise Estonia No. 1 .1-5.2/18/524 of 14 May 2018 . 
Regulation of Minister of Public Administration No. 3 7 of 5 October 2018 . 
Regulation of Minister of Public Administration No. 3 6 of 18 July 2019 . 
Regulation of Minister of Public Administration No. 2 5 of 7 May 2019 .  
Regulation of Minister of Public Administration No. 2 1 of 15 May 2020 . 
Regulation of Minister of Public Administration No. 2 6 of 29 May 2018 . 
Regulation of Minister of Entrepreneurship and Information Technology No. 3 8 of 13 July 2017 . 
Regulation of Minister of Entrepreneurship and Information Technology No. 5 7 of 1 November 2018 . 
Regulation of Põlva Rural Municipality Government No. 7  of 8 March 2017 . 
Regulation of Põlva Rural Municipal ity Government No. 5 9 of 20 December 2018 .  
Regulation of Minister of Entrepreneurship and Information Technology No. 3 0 of 11 June 2018 .  
Regulation of Minister of Foreign Trade and Information Technology No. 5 3 of 27 August 2020 .  
Regulation of Minister of Foreign Trade and Information Technology No. 5 2 of 27 August 2020 . 
Regulation of Tallinn City Council No. 1 0 of 11 June 2020 .  
Regulation on City Council of Narva No. 4  of 25 February 2021 . 
Regulation on City Council of Narva No. 2 3 of 1 October 2021 .  
Regulation on City Council of Narva No. 1 3 of 26 May 2022 . 
Support agreements of Ministry of Internal Affairs No. 7 -4/2127 -1 of 27 January 2022 . 
Support agreement between Ministry of Internal Affairs and MTÜ ECO -TAREST .  
Decision of Saku Rural Municipality Government No. 4  of 19 August 2021 .  
5. Form of the subsidy  
Grant.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
In case of ARIB the subsidy is provided to the companies diversifying or expanding activities, to the 
agricultural producers who start non -agricultural activities in rural areas or other companies (or 
activity groups whose members are companies) active in rural areas or small  towns.  
In case of Lääne -Nigula Rural Municipality Government subsidy is provided to sole proprietors, 
companies, foundations,  and non -profit organisations in order to promote business environment in 
Lääne -Nigula Rural Municipality.  
In case of Enterprise E stonia the subsidy is provided to companies outside the City of Tallinn and 
City of Tartu for building connection to electricity. Maximum amount of subsidy is EUR 100,000 and 
maximum aid intensity is 60% of eligible costs.  
In case of subsidies provided by Enterprise Estonia investment aid is also granted to large investment 
projects, subsidy rate is 10% of eligible costs. Maximum aid amount per project is EUR 1 -3 million . 
In case of Rõuge Rural Municipality Government subsidy is granted to sole proprietors,  companies 
in order to start, expand or re -organise business in Rõuge Rural Municipality.  
In case of subsidies provided by SSSC investment aid is granted to companies active in Ida-Viru 
County and for diversifying business and people's professional skills in Ida -Viru County. Subsidy rate 
is from 25% to 100% depending on the investment. Maximum aid amount per project is 
EUR 1.650  million . Support is also granted for investments in local infrastructure to increase the 
quality of life in  other regions. Support  is also granted to entrepreneurs active on small islands up 
to 85% of eligible costs but no more than EUR 130,000 per project .  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.8  
- 16 - 
  Support is also provided to entrepreneurs active in South -East region of Estonia to support the 
development and innovation of e ntrepreneurs and to increase the productivity of such companies.  
Support is granted for better use of the development prerequisites of other areas as well as for 
availability of services necessary for economic growth and an increase in the quality of life in these 
areas . 
In case of subsidies provided by Kredex subsidy is provided for local governments or local 
government units for building or reconstructing rental houses. Maximum subsidy rate is 50%. 
Subsidy is also provided  for demolition of a buildings that has fallen out of use up to 70% of eligible 
costs.  
In case o f Põlva Rural Municipality subsidy is provided for companies active in Põlva Rural 
Municipality. Maximum amount of subsidy is EUR 10,000. 
In case of Consumer Protection and Technical Regulatory Authority the grant is awarded to legal 
entities selected thro ugh a public tender as investment aid with the obligation to connect the next 
generation electronic communications access network to as many passive address objects in the 
eligible target area as possible. The beneficiary will remain the owner of the passi ve broadband 
infrastructure of the access network to be established. Maximum aid amount EUR 20 million . 
In case of support programme of Tallinn subsidy is granted to small companies active in Tallinn for 
introduction of digital solutions. Maximum support a mount is EUR 6,000 for maximum 70% of eligible 
costs of the project.  
In case of City of Narva subsidies  are provided for different companies but not more that 
EUR 200,000. 
In case of Ministry of Internal Affairs support is granted on the basis on support contracts for 
organization of the border crossing queue and for other objectives.  
In case of Saku Rural Municipality support is granted to a company for certain property to be 
acquired.  
7. Subsidy per unit, or in cases where this is not possible, the total amount or the annual amount 
budgeted for the subsidy  
Fiscal year 2021 – EUR 20.067 million . 
Fiscal year 2022 – EUR 8.264 million . 
8. Duration of a subsidy and/or any other time limits attache d to it  
Different time limits apply to different programmes.  
9. Statistical  data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of a subsidy  
N/A. 
4  ENVIRONMENTAL AID  
4.1  Environmental Programme  
1. Period covered by the notification  
2021, 2022.  
2. Policy objective and/or p urpose of the subsidy  
To preserve the stability of environment.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.8  
- 17 - 
  3. Background and authority  for the subsidy  
Environmental Investment Centre (Foundation) .  
Private Forest Centre Foundation . 
4. Legislation under which subsidy is granted  
Regulation of Minister of Environment No. 1 3 of 17 February 2006 .  
Regulation of Minister of Environment No. 1 0 of 31 January 2020 . 
Terms of granting state aid on the basis of block exemption regulation approved by the Decision of 
the Council of Environmen tal Investment Center of 7 October 2014 and 21 December 2015 . 
Terms of granting state aid on the basis of block exemption regulation approved by the Order of the 
Board of Environmental Investment Center of 12 February 2020 .  
Terms of granting state aid on the basis of block exemption regulation approved by the Order of the 
Board of Environmental Investment Center of 8 January 2021 and 30 December 2021 .  
Terms of granting de minimis aid approved by the Council of Environmental Investment Center 
No. 1-4/729 o f 11 July 2014 and No. 1 -4/781 of 17 February 2015 . 
Regulation of Minister of Environment No. 1 6 of 7 June 2018 .  
Regulation of Minister of Environment No. 4 1 of 11 September 2019 . 
Regulation of Minister of Environment No. 6 9 of 11 December 2019 .  
Regulation of Minister of Environment No. 3 6 of 2 June 2020 .  
Regulation of Minister of Environment No. 8  of 23 February 2021 .  
Forest Act .  
Regulation of the Minister of Environment No. 1 0 of 14 April 2014 .  
5. Form of the subsidy  
Grant.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
In case of Environmental Investment Centre the subsidy is provided to applicants ' projects, which 
are targeted at environmental protection, inter alia for infrastructure  projects, for climate projects 
for developing countries, for purchase of electric vehicles. Subsidies are granted mostly for 
investments up to 100% of eligible costs. Support is also provided to the local governments for the 
establishment and expansion of  the infrastructure for the separate collection of waste, bio -waste 
handling and the acquisition of the necessary inventory up to 90% of eligible costs but no more than 
EUR 200,000. 
Support is also provided for implementation of green technology business development programs . 
Subsidies for promotion of forests are granted in accordance with the relevant conditions of Private 
Forest Centre Foundation. Maximum subsidy amount is up to EUR 200,000. 
7. Subsidy per unit, or in cases where this is not possi ble, the total amount or the annual amount 
budgeted for the subsidy  
Fiscal year 2021 – EUR 4.639 million .  
Fiscal year 2022 – EUR 5.522 million .  
8. Duration  of a subsidy and/or any other time limits attached to it  
Different time limits apply to different pro grams.  
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of a subsidy  
N/A. G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.8  
- 18 - 
  4.2  Support for electricity produced from renewable sources and efficient cogeneration  
1. Period covered by the notification  
2021, 2022.  
2. Policy objective and/or purpose of the  subsidy  
The purpose of the subsidy scheme is to eliminate the market barrier for producers using renewable 
sources to produce electricity and to produce electricity in efficient cogeneration mode.  
3. Background and authority  for the subsidy  
Elering AS (Transmission System Operator)  
4. Legislation under which subsidy is granted  
Electricity Market Act § 59 . 
5. Form of the subsidy  
Grant.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
The subsidy is paid monthly on the basis of applications from producers wh o produce electricity 
using renewable sources or producers who produce electricity in efficient cogeneration regime.  
7. Subsidy per unit, or in cases where this is not possible, the total amount or the annual amount 
budgeted for the subsidy  
Fiscal year 2021 – EUR 93.632  million . 
Fiscal year 2022 – EUR 91.917 million . 
8. Duration of a subsidy  and/or any other time limits attached to it  
The subsidy is paid on monthly basis for 12 years beginning from the date when the producer first 
started to produce electricity.  
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of a subsidy  
N/A. 
4.3  Subsidy for Biomethane Production.  
1. Period covered by the notification  
2021, 2022.  
2. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
The purpose of the subsidy scheme is to increase the share of biomethane in transport and in energy 
by promoting the production of biomethane.  
3. Background and authority  for the subsidy  
Elering AS (Transmission System Operator)  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.8  
- 19 - 
  4. Legislation under which subsidy  is granted  
Regulation of Minister of Economic Affairs and Infrastructure No. 5 0 of 18 September 2017  
5. Form of the subsidy  
Grant.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
Subsidy is granted to biomethane producers for producing biomethane that will be used in transport 
and energy. Subsidy is paid once per the following month of production.  
7. Subsidy per unit, or in cases where this is not possible, the total amount or the annual amount 
budgeted for the subsidy  
Fiscal year 2021 – EUR 8.855  million . 
Fiscal year 2022 – EUR 0.419 million . 
8. Duration of a subsidy  and/or any other time limits attached to it  
The program is valid till the end of 2023.  
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of a subsidy  
N/A. 
4.4  Exemption on Excise Duty for  Electricity for Electro -intensive Companies  
1. Period covered by the notification  
2021, 2022.  
2. Policy objective and/or purpose  of the subsidy  
The purpose of the subsidy scheme is to aid electro -intensive companies.  
3. Background and authority for the subsidy  
Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications . 
4. Legislation under  which subsidy is granted  
Alcohol, Tobacco, Fuel and Electricity Excise Duty Act § 66(122). 
5. Form of the subsidy  
Tax advantage.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
Subsidy is granted to electro -intensive companies. T he excise duty rate on electricity for an electro -
intensive companies holding an energy excise duty exemption permit is 0.5 euros per megawatt -
hour of electricity . 
7. Subsidy per unit, or in cases where this is not possible, the total amount or the annual amount 
budgeted for the subsidy  
Fiscal year 2021 – EUR 0.177  million .  
Fiscal year 2022 – EUR 0.331 million .  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.8  
- 20 - 
  8. Duration of a subsidy  and/or any other time limits attached to it  
The program is valid till the end of 2023.  
9. Statistical  data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of a subsidy  
N/A. 
4.5  Exemption on Excise Duty for Natu ral Gas for Companies with Intensive Gas 
Consumption.  
1. Period covered by the notification  
2021, 2022.  
2. Policy objective and/or purpose of the su bsidy 
The purpose of the subsidy scheme is to aid companies with intensive natural gas consumption.  
3. Background and authority for the subsidy  
Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications .  
4. Legislation under which subsidy is granted  
Alcohol, Tobacco, Fuel  and Electricity Excise Duty Act .  
5. Form of the subsidy  
Tax advantage.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
Subsidy is granted to companies with intensive gas consumption. Eligible company  has an average 
gas consumption intensity of at least 2 0% in the one to four consecutive financial years immediately 
preceding the application for the energy excise duty exemption permit, or the company has an 
average gas consumption intensity of at least 20% in the next 12 calendar months. The preferential 
excise duty rate on natural gas for such undertaking is EUR 11.30 per one thousand cubic meters of 
natural gas.  
7. Subsidy per unit, or in cases where this is not possible, the total amount or the annual am ount 
budgeted for the subsidy  
Fiscal year 2021 – EUR 0.845 million . 
Fiscal year 2022 – EUR 0.813 million . 
8. Duration of a subsidy and/or any other time limits attached to it  
The program is valid till the end of 2023.  
9. Statistical  data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of a subsidy  
N/A. 
4.6  Temporary Use of Special Purpose Diesel for Companies Holding an Extraction Permit  
1. Period covered by the notification  
2021, 2022.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.8  
- 21 - 
  2. Policy objective  and/or purpose of the subsidy  
The objective of the subsidy scheme is to temporarily allow the use of special purpose diesel for 
companies holding an extraction permit on the basis  of the Earth 's Crust Act.  
3. Background and authority  for the subsidy  
Ministry  of Economic Affairs and Communications .  
4. Legislation under  which subsidy is granted  
Fiscal Marking of Liquid Fuel Act;  
Alcohol, Tobacco, Fuel and Electricity Excise Duty Act . 
5. Form of the subsidy  
Tax advantage.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
The use of special purpose diesel is allowed for companies holding an extraction permit. The eligible 
company can use special purpose diesel on its mining claim and on the land that serves such a claim 
and on its industrial premises where equipmen t for producing shale oil, electricity or heat from oil 
shale is located, as well as, on its ash deposit site, in vehicles and equipment intended for the mining 
of oil shale; for transporting oil shale, oil shale ash and gangue, without using, for this pur pose, a 
railway or a public -use road, while crossing the latter is not deemed to constitute its use.  
Subsidy is deemed to be the difference between the rate of the excise duty for diesel provided by 
the Alcohol, Tobacco, Fuel and Electricity Excise Duty Ac t and the rate of the excise duty for specific -
purpose diesel used for a purpose described above.  
7. Subsidy per unit, or in cases where this is not possible, the total amount or the annual amount 
budgeted for the subsidy  
Fiscal year 2021 – EUR 3.863  million . 
Fiscal year 2022 – EUR 5.840 million . 
8. Duration of a subsidy and/or any other time limits attached to it  
The program is valid till 30 April 2023.  
9. Statistical  data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of a subsidy  
N/A. 
5  DOMESTIC SUPPORT IN AGRICULTURE  
5.1  General Services  
1. Period covered by the notification  
2021; 2022 . 
2. Policy objective  and/or purpose of the subsidy  
The programme aims at providing services and benefits to agriculture or the rural community.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.8  
- 22 - 
  3. Background and authority for the subsidy  
The Ministry of Rural Affairs .  
4. Legislation  under which domestic support is granted:  
− State Budget Act of 2021;  
− State Budget Act of 2022;  
− European Union Common Agricultural Policy Implementation Act, 2014;  
− Rural Development and Agricultural Market Regulation Act of 19 June 2008;  
− Sustainable Development Act of 22 February 1995;  
− Organisation of Research and Development Act of 26 March 1997;  
− Organic Farming Act of 29 September 2006;  
− Regulation (EU) No. 6 52/2014 lays down the procedures governing the Union financial 
contribution for programmes for the eradication, control and monitoring of animal diseases 
and zoonoses ; 
− Commiss ion Regulation (EU) No. 7 02/2014 of 25 June 2014 declaring certain categories of 
aid in the agricultural and forestry sectors and in rural areas compatible with the internal 
market in application of Articles 107 and 108 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the 
European Union;  
− Regulation (EU) No. 1 308/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 
17 December 2013 establishing a common organisation of the markets in agricultural 
products and repealing Council Regulations (EEC) No. 9 22/72, (EEC) No. 2 34/79, 
(EC) No. 1037/2001 and (EC) No. 1 234/2007 ; 
− Commission implementing regulation (EU) 2015/1368 of 6 August 2015  laying down rules 
for the application of Regulation (EU) No. 1 308/2013 of the European Parliament and of the 
Council with regard to aid in th e apiculture sector ; 
− Regulation (EU) 2020/2220 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 
23 December  2020 laying down certain transitional provisions for support from the European 
Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD) and from the European  Agricultural 
Guarantee Fund (EAGF) in the years 2021 and 2022 and amending Regulations (EU) 
No. 1305/2013, (EU) No. 1 306/2013 and (EU) No. 1 307/2013 as regards resources and 
application in the years 2021 and 2022 and Regulation (EU) No. 1 308/2013 as regar ds 
resources and the distribution of such support in respect of the years 2021 and 2022;  
− Commission regulation (EU) No. 1 408/2013  of 18 December 2013 on the application of 
Articles 107 and 108 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union to de mi nimis  
aid in the agriculture sector ; 
− Estonian Rural Development Plan 2014 -2020 (RDP 2014 -2020, transition years 2021 -2022);  
− National Programme "Conservation and Utilization of Plant Genetic Resources for Food and 
Agriculture 2021 -2027" ; 
− National Programme for Plant Breeding 2020 -2030;  
− Programme "Applied Research and Development  in Agriculture 2015 -2021"; 
− National Apiculture Programme 2020 -2022; 
− Strategic document "Estonian Food 2015 -2020"; Vision document "Estonian Food 
2022-2025". 
5. Form of the subsidy  
Grants, subsidized services . 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
(a) Support for research.  There are several national funding programmes for development of 
agricultural policies, applied research for plant and animal production, etc. S uch as the 
national programme "Conservation and Utilization of Plant Genetic Resources for Food and 
Agriculture (2021 -2027), National programme for plant breeding (2020 -2030), Programme 
"Applied Research and Development in Agriculture 2015 -2021", the latte r includes 
participation in JPI and ERA -Net projects. Also support form farm animal breeding and 
National Apiculture programme are in force. Three state institutions are involved in research 
and breeding activities (Agricultural Research Centre, Estonian C rop Research Institute, 
Estonian Livestock Performance Recording Ltd).  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.8  
- 23 - 
  (b) The support for pest and disease control  to institutions for developing pest and disease 
control measures are provided. The compensation of removal and destruction of fallen stock. 
The apiculture support for preventing diseases in apiculture. The sub -category includes costs 
of the Veterinary and Food Laboratory related to infectious animal diseases and prevention.  
(c) The support for training services includes practical training support, tec hnical aid 
(seminars, trainings) and measure 1 (knowledge transfer and information actions) from RDP 
2014-2020 and training services support from different national programmes. Support is 
provided mainly to agricultural producers, but also to food industry  and forestry sector.  
(d) Extension and advisory services  include advice and information costs of information 
collection, publications, brochures, cross compliance materials, thematic seminars for 
farmers and entrepreneurs in forest and food sector, and consu ltation services for farmers 
and forest holders. RDP 2014 -2020 measure 2 (Advisory services, farm management and 
farm relief services) – the aim of the advisory and extension services is to support the setting 
up of farm advisory service systems and to sup port the provision of farm advisory and 
extension services. The state supported advisory services is coordinated by the Rural 
Development Foundation, which must to ensure the functioning of the agricultural advisory 
system, including the communication of i nformation about state measures and the 
availability of quality advice (training plans, advisory tools, and analyses, advertising the 
advisory service and looking for new advisers). The Ministry of Rural Affairs of the Republic 
of Estonia has subscribed to  surveys about assessing and planning advisory activities and 
training services.  
(e) The support for inspection services  includes services concerning production, veterinary 
and food control, food quality and safety inspection programmes.  
(f) Marketing and promotio n services  are aimed at supporting the marketing and promotion 
activities for agricultural producers and processors. This is through participating in 
exhibitions and trade fairs and other joint promotion activities, gathering market 
information, granting s upport for activities related to improving the production, processing 
or marketing agricultural produce and introducing the latest research and development 
findings into production (including market research, promotional activities, training, 
competitions and fairs, quality assurance etc). The RDP supports participation in quality 
schemes for agricultural products and foodstuffs (measure 3).  
(g) The support for infrastructural services  involves the maintenance of amelioration 
structures, aiming at promoting th e development of infrastructure in rural areas. This 
includes support for cooperation, which will contribute to cutting -edge research and 
technology and farmers, businesses and advisory services strengthening the link between 
them, is included. The RDP 201 4-2020 supports innovation cooperation between 
farmers/agricultural processors and research and development institutions. Support for pilot 
projects and the development of new products, practices, processes and technologies 
(M16.1, 16.2) includes support f or cross -border activities of European Innovation 
Partnership (EIP) operational groups, whereas the innovation clusters can include several 
sub-measures of M16 (16.0, 16.2, 16.3, 16.5, 16.9) and have a more strategic and broader 
approach (one cluster per s ector). A cluster is a non - profit organization with at least 
ten farmers or agricultural processors as its members, plus relevant partners (research and 
development organizations, etc), that has submitted a coherent action plan targeted to 
innovation.  
(h) Under other types , the s upport for the replacement of agricultural producer during the 
vacation period and illness and other support is provided. Estonia widened the target group 
during 2021 -2022 Covid -19 period to crop production.  
7. Subsidy per unit, or in ca ses, where this is not possible, the total amount or the annual amount 
budgeted  for the subsidy  
Fiscal year 2021 - EUR 45.047 million from the Estonian state budget . 
Fiscal year 2022 – EUR 47.502 million from the Estonian state budget . 
8. Duration of a subsidy and/or any other time limits attached to it  
Duration of a subsidy is according to the validation period of different programmes:  
RDP 2014 -2020 prolonged up do 2022, National Programme "Conservation and Utilization of Plant 
Genetic Resources for Fo od and Agriculture 2021 -2027 and for Programme Applied Research and 
Development in Agriculture 2015 -2021, National Programme for Plant Breeding 2020 -2030, National G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.8  
- 24 - 
  Apiculture Programme 2020 -2022,  Strategic document "Estonian Food " 2015-2020 and vision 
document 2022 -2025. For state aid measures, the validation period up to 30.03.2023. Other grants, 
subsidies and measures have no time limits attached to them.  
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of a subsidy  
N/A. 
5.2  Public Stockholding  For Food Security Purposes  
1. Period covered by the notification  
2021; 2022 . 
2. Policy objective and/or purpose  of the subsidy  
The programme covers the expenditures for purchasing and storing reserve stocks of different 
foodstuffs.  
3. Background and authority  for the subsidy  
The Ministry of Rural Affairs . 
4. Legislation under which  it is granted:  
− State Budget Act of 2021;  
− Emergency Act of 8 February 2017 . 
5. Form of the subsidy  
The establishment, storage and replenishment of the stockpile are financed in accordance with 
relevant agreements.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
Ministry of Rural Affairs has agreements with private enterprises, which act like partners of state to 
be prepared for urgency.  
7. Subsidy per unit, or in c ases, where this is not possible, the total amount or the annual amount 
budgeted for the subsidy   
Fiscal year 2021 - grants of EUR 0.011 million from Estonian state budget . 
Fiscal year 2022 – no grants . 
8. Duration of a subsidy and/or any other time limits at tached to it  
No time limits are attached to it.  
9. Statistical  data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of a subsidy  
N/A. 
5.3  Domestic food AID  
1. Period covered by the notification  
2021; 2022 . G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.8  
- 25 - 
  2. Policy objective and/or purpose  of the subsidy  
The objective of granting school milk support is to increase the consumption of milk by school pupils 
and kindergarten children, to encourage healthy eating habits and thereby promote the consumption 
of milk and milk products. The school fruit scheme provi des school children (and since September 
2012 also kindergarten children) with fruit and vegetables, aiming thus to encourage good eating 
habits in young people. The school fruit, vegetables and milk scheme (school scheme) is applicable 
since autumn 2017. The school scheme combines the two previous schemes (school fruit and 
vegetables scheme and school milk scheme) under a single legal framework and educational 
measures. Since 2022 the organic school meal support is implemented. The purpose of the grant is 
to contribute to the use of organic raw materials in the catering of educational institutions. The 
subsidy is aimed at providing organic food to children in pre -school institutions and students in 
general education schools, and helps educational institutio ns to partially compensate for the 
additional costs related to the higher price of organic food. Providing children with organic food 
contributes to the sustainability of food production and increases awareness of the organic farming 
sector and environment al protection in general.  
3. Background and authority  for the subsidy  
The Ministry of Rural Affairs . 
4. Legislation under  which it is granted  
− State Budget Act of 2021;  
− State Budget Act of 2022;  
− European Union Common Agricultural Policy Implementation Act 2014;  
− Rural Development and Agricultural Market Regulation Act 2008 .  
5. Form of the subsidy  
Grants . 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
The school organic meal, school milk support and school fruit scheme (latter are common market 
organization measures) aimed to increase the consumption of organic food, milk or fruits and 
vegetables by school pupils, as well as to encourage healthy eating habits and thereby promote the 
consumption of milk, milk products, fruits and vegetables. Support may be granted for educati onal 
institutions (school/kindergarten), milk product providers, city governments/local municipalities or 
legal persons (e.g. non -profit organizations) which represent school/kindergarten. The organic 
school meal support may be granted for educational inst itutions (school/kindergarten).  
7. Subsidy per unit, or in cases where this is not possible, the total amount or the annual amount 
budgeted for the subsidy  
Fiscal year 2021 - grants of EUR 0.962 million from the Estonian state budget . 
Fiscal year 2022 - grants of EUR 2.216 million from the Estonian state budget . 
8. Duration of a subsidy and/or any other time limits attached to it  
No time limits are attached to school schemes.  
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of a subsidy  
N/A. G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.8  
- 26 - 
  5.4  Decou pled income support  
1. Period covered by the notification  
2021; 2022 . 
2. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
There were no support from national budget provided as decoupled.  
3. Background and authority  for the subsidy  
N/A. 
4. Legislation  under which it is granted:  
N/A. 
5. Form of the subsidy  
N/A. 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
N/A. 
7. Subsidy per unit, or in cases where this is not possible, the total amount or the annual amount 
budgeted for the subsidy  
N/A. 
8. Duration of a subsidy  and/or any other time limits attached to it  
N/A. 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of a subsidy  
N/A. 
5.5  Income insurance and income safety - net programmes  
1. Period covered by the notification  
2021; 2022 . 
2. Policy objective  and/or purpose of the subsidy  
N/A. 
3. Background  and authority for the subsidy  
N/A. 
4. Legislation  under which it is granted  
N/A. 
5. Form of the subsidy  
N/A. G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.8  
- 27 - 
  6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
N/A. 
7. Subsidy per unit, or in cases where this is not possible, the total amount or the annual amount 
budgeted for the subsidy  
N/A. 
8. Duration of a subsidy and/or any other time limits attached to it  
N/A. 
9. Statistical  data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of a subsidy  
N/A.  
5.6  Government financial participation in income insurance and income safety - net 
programmes  
1. Period covered by the notification  
2021; 2022 . 
2. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
N/A. 
3. Background and authority for the subsidy  
N/A. 
4. Legislation  under which it is granted  
N/A. 
5. Form of the subsidy  
N/A. 
6. To whom  and how the subsidy is provided  
N/A. 
7. Subsidy per unit, or in cases where this is not possible, the total amount or the annual amount 
budgeted for the subsidy  
N/A. 
8. Duration of a subsidy and/or any other time limits attached to it  
N/A. 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of a subsidy  
N/A.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.8  
- 28 - 
  5.7  Structural adjustment assistance provided through resource retirement programmes  
1. Period covered by the notification  
2021; 2022 . 
2. Policy objective and/ or purpose of the subsidy  
N/A. 
3. Background and authority for the subsidy  
N/A. 
4. Legislation  under which it is granted  
N/A. 
5. Form of the subsidy  
N/A. 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
N/A. 
7. Subsidy per unit, or in cases where this is not possible, the total amount or the annual amount 
budgeted for the subsidy  
N/A. 
8. Duration of a subsidy and/or any other time limits attached to it  
N/A. 
9. Statistical  data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of a subsidy  
N/A.  
5.8  Payment for Relief from Natural Disasters   
1. Period covered by the notification  
2021; 2022 . 
2. Policy objective and/or purpose  of the subsidy  
N/A. 
3. Background and authority  for the subsidy  
N/A. 
4. Legislation under  which it is granted  
N/A. 
5. Form of the subsidy  
N/A. G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.8  
- 29 - 
  6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
N/A. 
7. Subsidy per unit, or in cases where this is not possible, the total amount or the annual amount 
budgeted for the subsidy  
N/A. 
8. Duration  of a subsidy and/or any other time limits attached to it  
N/A. 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of a subsidy  
N/A.  
5.9  Structural  Adjustment Assistance Provided Through Investment Aids   
1. Period covered by the notification  
2021; 2022 . 
2. Policy objective  and/or purpose of the subsidy  
The programme aims at assisti ng producers by offering financial restructuring aid and the better 
access to capital.  
3. Background and authority for the subsidy  
The Ministry of Rural Affairs, Rural Development Foundation (RDF) . 
4. Legislation under which it is granted  
− Estonian Rural Development Plan 2014 -2020 (RDP 2014 -2020, transition years 2021 -2022);  
− European Union Common Agricultural Policy Implementation Act 2014;  
− Rural Development and Agricultural Market Regulation Act of 19 June 2008;  
− State Budget Act of 2021, granted as state aid according to Commission Regulation (EC) 
No. 702/2014; (EC) No. 1 408/2013;  
− State Budget Act of 2022, granted as state aid according to Commission Regulation (EC) 
No. 702/2014; (EC) No. 1 408/2013 ; 
− State aid Temporary framework amendment 03.04.2020 (COVID  -19) section 3.1 and 3.3 . 
5. Form of the subsidy  
Grants, guarantees, loans, interest concession . 
6. To whom  and how the subsidy is provided  
The objective of the measures is to develop viable and sustainable food production -oriented 
agricultural sector which is competitive, resource -efficient, and with sustainable age structure.  
Through the RDP 2014 -2020 following subsidies are provided:  
• Measure 4 - Investments in physical assets, included support of investments into improving 
the performance of agricultural holdings, investments into processing and marketing of 
agricultural products and investments into development and maintenance of agricultural and  
forestry infrastructure.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.8  
- 30 - 
  • Measure 6 - Farm and business development, included support of setting up of young 
farmers, development of small farms and support for the diversification of rural economy 
towards non -agricultural activities.  
• Measure 8 - Investme nts in forest area development and improvement of the viability of 
forests, included support  for prevention and elimination of damages to forests and 
restoration of damaged forests, support for elimination damage caused by forest fires, 
natural disasters a nd disasters and support for improving the viability and economic value 
of forests.  
• Measure 9 - Setting up of producer groups and organisations to increase the competitiveness 
of agricultural operators and private forest owners and to increase market power  through 
the promotion of their joint economic activity.  
• For better implementation of sub -measures 4.1 (Investments into improving the 
performance of agricultural holdings), 4.2 (Investments into processing and marketing of 
agricultural products) and 6.4 ( Support for the diversification of rural economy towards non -
agricultural activities) of RDP 2014 -2020, the following financial instruments are available 
via RDF since February 2016:  
o the growth loan for micro and small enterprises;  
o long-term investment loa n. 
The target of the financial instruments is to ensure the better access to capital. The target group of 
the measure are small and medium size enterprises.  
RDF guarantees and loans to farmers and other rural entrepreneurs and non -profit organisations 
from its own budget for different purposes are provided several years. In 2021 and 2022, the RDF 
continued to grant loans and guarantees to farmers and other rural entrepreneurs and non -profit 
organisations for different investments. In 2021 the possibilities of the State Aid Temporary 
Framework (p 3.1 and 3.3) were used to provide financial relief for agricultural producers during 
Covid -19 situation.  
7. Subsidy per unit, or in cases where this is not possible, the total amount or the annual amount 
budgeted for th e subsidy  
Fiscal year 2021 – grants of EUR 4.651 million from the Estonian state budget and EUR 0.411 million 
as reduced guarantee fee and loan interest concession (for  investments), totally EUR 5.062 million . 
Fiscal year 2022 – grants of EUR 5.369 million  from the Estonian state budget and EUR 0.024 million 
as reduced guarantee fee and loan interest concession (for investments), totally EUR 5.392 million . 
8. Duration  of a subsidy and/or any other time limits attached to it  
Duration of a subsidy is the validation period of RDP 2014 -2020.  For state aid measures and de 
minimis measures, the validation period is up to 30.03.2023 and to the end of 2027.  Duration of the 
financial instrument validation period ends 2023. Duration of the Temporary State Aid Fram ework 
(Covid -19) was prolonged to the 30th of June of 2022.  
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of a subsidy  
N/A.  
5.10  Payment Under Environmental Programs  
1. Period covered by the notification  
2021; 2022 . 
2. Policy objective and/or purpo se of the subsidy  
Support under the RDP is provided for environmentally friendly and sustainable production methods, 
animal welfare and to secure the continuous land use in NATURA 2000 areas. The compensation of 
damages caused by wild animals and birds (pr otected by the Nature Conservation Act) is provided 
to compensate for the loss of yield for agricultural producers.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.8  
- 31 - 
  3. Background and authority  for the subsidy  
The Ministry of Rural Affairs, the Environmental Board . 
4. Legislation under which it is granted  
− European Union Common Agricultural Policy Implementation Act 2014;  
− Estonian Rural Development Plan 2014 -2020 (RDP 2014 -2020, transition years 2021 -2022);  
− Nature Conservation Act of 21 April 2004 ; 
− State Budget Act of 2021, granted as state aid acco rding to Commission Regulation (EC) 
No. 1408/2013 ; 
− State Budget Act of 2022, granted as state aid according to Commission Regulation (EC) 
No. 1408/2013 . 
5. Form of the subsidy  
Grants . 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
The aim of the support provided by  the RDP 2014 -2020 (measure 10) is to introduce environmentally 
friendly production methods that will promote sustainability of the environment by restricting the 
use of pesticides in the handling of foodstuffs, and facilitates the preservation of the natu ral fertility 
of the soil, the assurance of biological diversity and the continued use of semi -natural grasslands.  
Support is granted annually and is calculated based on income foregone and additional costs 
resulting from the given actions.   
The aim of the  support provided by the RDP 2014 -2020 (measure 11, Conversion and maintaining 
the organic farming) is to introduce organic farming and increase the share of organic farming in 
traditional agriculture that will promote sustainability of the environment by restricting the use of 
fertilizers and pesticides in the handling of organic foodstuffs. Support is granted annually and is 
calculated based on income foregone and additional costs resulting from the given actions and the 
need to provide an incentive.  Paym ents are based on the limitations on the use of fertilizers, plant 
protection products or other inputs.  
Support for Natura 2000 and Water Framework Directive payments is provided through the RDP 
2014-2020 (measure 12, NATURA 2000 support for private forest  and land  is provided under regional 
assistance areas). The objective is considering the need to maintain biological and landscape 
diversity, it is necessary to ensure areas the agricultural lands compensation for the restrictions in 
NATURA 2000.  
The support for animal welfare is provided through the RDP 2014 -2020 (measure 14). The objective 
of this measure is to raise the awareness of livestock farmers of animal well -being and support the 
agricultural producers who comply with the highest requirements  of animal welfare, thereby 
improving animal welfare and health. The aim is also to maintain and improve biological and 
landscape diversity.  This support is available for farmers (natural and legal persons, civil law 
partnerships and other associations of persons without the status of a legal person). Support is paid 
with regard to cattle, pigs, sheep, goats, hens and horses.  
The Environmental Board finances the compensation of damages caused by wild animals and birds 
(protected by Nature Conservation Act) as de minimis for agricultural producers. The aim of support 
is to compensate yield or animal losses or re -sowing of arable crops.  
7. Subsidy per unit, or in cases where this is not possible, the total amount or the annual amount 
budgeted for the subsidy  
Fiscal year 2021 - grants of EUR 13.684 million from the Estonian state budget . 
Fiscal year 2022 – grants of EUR 15.376 million from the Estonian state budget . G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.8  
- 32 - 
  8. Duration of a subsidy and/or any other time limits attached to it  
Duration of a subsidy is the v alidation period of RDP 2014 -2020. For de minimis measure the 
validation period ends 2027.   
9. Statistical  data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of a subsidy  
N/A.  
5.11  Insurance support  
1. Period covered by the notification  
2021; 2022 . 
2. Policy objective  and/or purpose of the subsidy  
The insurance support measure was implemented since 2019 via RDP measure 17 ((EC) 1305/2013 
art 37) to partially (70%) compensate the insurance payments for agricultural crops, agricultural 
animals, poultry and bees to small and medium sized agricultural enterprises (SMEs). The purpose 
is to offer a sustainable solution to agricultural producers to manage the losses caused (more 
than 20%) by adverse weather conditions, climate disasters and animal and plant diseases o r pest 
infestations.  
3. Background and authority for the subsidy  
The Ministry of Rural Affairs . 
4. Legislation under  which it is granted  
− European Union Common Agricultural Policy Implementation Act 2014;  
− Estonian Rural Development Plan 2014 -2020 (RDP 2014 -2020) . 
5. Form of the subsidy  
Grants . 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
The insurance support is provided for small and medium -sized agricultural enterprises (SMEs).  
7. Subsidy per unit, or in cases where this is not possible, the total amount or the annual amou nt 
budgeted for the subsidy  
Fiscal year 2021 – grants of EUR 0.002 million from the Estonian state budget . 
Fiscal year 2022 – grants of EUR 0.008 million from the Estonian state budget . 
8. Duration of a subsidy and/or any other time limits attached to it  
Duration of a subsidy is the validation period of RDP 2014 -2020.  
9. Statistical  data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of a subsidy  
N/A.  
5.12  Fuel Tax Exemption  
1. Period covered by the notification  
2021; 2022 . G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.8  
- 33 - 
  2. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subs idy 
Tax exemption is for agricultural produces using diesel fuel marked with fiscal markers  in the 
machinery used in the agricultural production process and in grain dryer. The aim is to reduce the 
tax burden of the agricultural sector.  
3. Background and authority for the subsidy  
The Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Rural Affairs . 
4. Legislation under  which it is granted  
− Council Directive 2003/96/EC of 27 October 2003 Restructuring the Community Framework 
for the Taxation of Energy Products and Electricity;  
− Commission Regulation (EU) Ni 651/2014 declaring certain categories of aid compatible with 
the internal market in application of Articles 107 and 108 of the Treaty ; 
− Alcohol, Tobacco and Fuel Excise Duty Act of 4 December 2002;  
− Rural Developmen t and Agricultural Market Regulation Act of 19 June 2008.  
5. Form of the subsidy  
Tax exemption . 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
Tax exemption is for agricultural produces using diesel fuel marked with fiscal markers  in the 
production process.  
7. Subsidy  per unit, or in cases where this is not possible, the total amount or the annual amount 
budgeted for the subsidy  
Tax exemption is calculated taking into account amount of diesel fuel bought for use in agriculture 
and the difference between the normal exci se duty rate and reduced excise duty rate of diesel fuel 
marked with fiscal marker.  
During the period 1st of January 2021 till 31 of May 2022 the subsidy per unit (1 ,000 liter) was 
272 EUR and during the period 1st of June 2022 till 31st of December 2022, EUR 351. 
Fiscal year 2021 – tax exemption is calculated for EUR 22.631 million .  
Fiscal year 2022 – tax exemption is calculated for EUR 28.300 million . 
8. Duration of a subsidy and/or any other time limits attached to it  
There is no time limits attached to the tax exemption.  
9. Statistical  data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of a subsidy  
N/A. 
5.13  Short -Term Loans and LOAN Guarantees  
1. Period covered by the notification  
2021; 2022 . 
2. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
Rural Development Foundation (RDF) gives t he short -term loans (not for investments) with interest 
concession and guarantees for loans with reduced fee and are for facilitating SMEs (included 
agricultural SMEs) access to financial resources. Interes t concessions of short -term loans and G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.8  
- 34 - 
  reduced fee of loan guarantees are amounted as state aid or de minimis.  The guarantee extends 
only to the debtor's principal obligation to the debtor's liability, and supplements. The Foundation is 
responsible only, if  the claim against the principal debtor could not be met. In 2021 the short -term 
loans and loan guarantees were given to agricultural sector for financial relief during Covid -19 
situation based on the State Aid Temporary Framework (p. 3.1 and p. 3.3).  
3. Background and authority for the subsidy  
Rural Development Foundation, Ministry of Rural Affairs . 
4. Legislation under  which it is granted  
− Rural Development and Agricultural Market Regulation Act of 19 June 2008;  
− State Budget Act of 2021, granted as state aid acc ording to Commission Regulation (EC) 
No. 1408/2013 ; 
− State Budget Act of 2022, granted as state aid according to Commission Regulation (EC) 
No. 1408/2013 ;  
− The State Aid Temporary Framework (Covid -19). 
5. Form of the subsidy  
Reduced guarantee fee, loan interest concession, grants . 
6. To whom  and how the subsidy is provided  
The deposit exemption and loan interest concession are for agricultural producers using short -term 
loans and loan guarantees given by the RDF as de minimis or state aid.  
7. Subsidy per unit , or in cases where this is not possible, the total amount or the annual amount 
budgeted  for the subsidy  
Fiscal year 2021 – deposit exemption EUR 0 .002 million and grants EUR 2.321 million (State Aid 
Temporary Framework p 3.1) EUR 1 .668 million. Total EUR 1.670 million.  
Fiscal year 2022 – lowered guarantee levies and interest concessions EUR 0.017 million.  
8. Duration  of a subsidy and/or any other time limits attached to it  
For de minimis measure, the validation period is the end of 2027.  Duration of the Temporary State 
Aid Framework was prolonged to the end of June 2022.  
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of a subsidy  
N/A. 
5.14  Transitional National Aid (coupled)  
1. Period covered by the notification  
2021; 2022 . 
2. Policy objective  and/or  purpose of the subsidy  
N/A. 
3. Background  and authority for the subsidy  
N/A. G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.8  
- 35 - 
  4. Legislation under which it is granted  
N/A. 
5. Form of the subsidy  
N/A. 
6. To whom  and how the subsidy is provided  
N/A. 
7. Subsidy per unit, or in cases where this is not possible, the total  amount or the annual amount 
budgeted for the subsidy  
N/A. 
5.15  Product specific support. Exceptional temporary support  
1. Period covered by the notification  
2021; 2022 . 
2. Policy objective  and/or purpose of the subsidy  
Russia 's invasion to Ukraine affected both food production and supply chains, including Estonian 
farmers. Given the importance of Ukraine and the Russian Federation in the global trade of 
agricultural products and production inputs, the war had a major impact on the supply of cereals, 
feed, gas and  fertilisers, including increased energy and feed prices. At the same time, the prices of 
agricultural products rose much more slowly than the prices of inputs. The support is aimed to ensure 
the security of food supply and support the agricultural sector with the effects of the energy crisis 
and war. The support was provided to milk, pork, sheep and goat meat, beef, poultry and egg, 
cereals, potatoes, open field vegetables, strawberries producers and to horticulture under cover.  
3. Background  and authority for the subsidy  
The Ministry of Rural Affairs . 
4. Legislation  under which it is granted  
− State budget Act 2021 ; 
− State budget Act 2022 ; 
− Rural Development and Agricultural Market Regulation Act of 19 June 2008 ; 
− Commission Delegated Regulation (EU)  2022/467 ; 
− Temporary Crisis Framework for State Aid Measures to Support the Economy After Russia 's 
Attack on Ukraine . 
5. Form of the subsidy  
Grants . 
6. To whom  and how the subsidy is provided  
The support was provided to milk, pork, sheep and goat meat, beef, po ultry and egg, potatoes, open 
field vegetables, strawberries producers and to horticulture under cover.  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.8  
- 36 - 
  7. Subsidy per unit, or in cases where this is not possible, the total amount or the annual amount 
budgeted for the subsidy  
Fiscal year 2021 – grants of EU R 15.753 million from the Estonian state budget (included cereals 
EUR 1.489 million; fruit and vegetables EUR 2.158 million, pigs EUR 3.668 million, cattle EUR 2.200 
million, dairy cows EUR 4.282 million, sheep and goats EUR 0.697 million, poultry EUR 0.12 5 million, 
potatoes EUR 1.133 million) . 
Fiscal year 2022 – grants of EUR 14.354 million from the Estonian state budget (included vegetables 
EUR 1.547 million, pigs EUR 5.485 million, cattle EUR 1.973 million, dairy cows EUR 4.604 million, 
sheep and goats E UR 0.397 million, poultry EUR 0.348 million) . 
6  DOMESTIC SUPPORT IN FISHERIES SECTOR  
1. Period covered by the notification  
2021; 2022 . 
2. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
The programme aims at providing services and benefits to fisheries and aquaculture sector.  
3. Background and authority for the subsidy  
Rural Development Foundation; Unemployment fund; Environmental Board; Estonian Agricultural 
Registers and Information Board; The Consumer Protection and Technical Regulatory Authority.  
4. Legislatio n under which it is granted : 
− State Budget Act of 2021;  
− State Budget Act of 2022;  
− Commission Regulation No. 717/2014 on the application of Articles 107 and 108 of the Treaty 
on the Functioning of the European Union to de minimis aid in the fishery and aquaculture 
sector;  
− Commission Regulation No. 6 51/2014 declaring certain categories of aid compatible with the 
internal market in application of Articles 107 and 108 of the Treaty;  
− Commission Regulation No. 1 388/2014 declaring certain categories of aid to undertakings 
active in the production, processing and marketing of fishery and aquaculture products 
compatible with the internal market in application of Articles 107 and 108 of the Treaty on 
the Functioning of the European Union;  
− Practice grant for produc er or processor of fishery or aquaculture products;  
− Training grant for producer or processor of fishery or aquaculture products;  
− Fisheries Market Organisation Act;  
− The Employment Program 2021 -2023;  
− Labour Market Services and Benefits Act;  
− Methods for asses sing the amount of damage caused by an animal, the specified scope and 
procedure for the compensation of damage, and the specified scope and procedure for the 
compensation of damage prevention measures;  
− Providing support for connection to electronic side n etworks enables high -speed broadband 
service;  
− Agreement of 30 March 2015 amending Management Contract No. 2 97 between Ministry of 
Rural Affairs and Rural Development Foundation ; 
− Temporary state aid framework to support the economy in the context of the current 
COVID -19 outbreak . 
5. Form of the subsidy  
Grants, compensations, loan, guarantee (collateral).  G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.8  
- 37 - 
  6. To whom  and how the subsidy is provided  
(a) Compensation for damage caused by animals. Compensation for damage caused by seals 
and eagles.  
(b) Training or practice aid for fish producers and fish processors.  
(c) Employment program 2021 -2023. 
(d) Support from employment programs 2016 -2020.  
(e) Provision of labour market services to ensure better opportunities for participation in 
employment 2015 -2020.  
(f) Exceptional support for an o perator processing fishery products following an outbreak of 
COVID -19. 
(g) Provision of labour market services for the target group of the work capacity reform - 
agriculture and fisheries.  
(h) Provision of employment services to mitigate the effects of the COVID -19 crisis -agricultural 
and fisheries de minimis . 
(i) Providing labour market services to ensure better opportunities for participation in 
employment 2015 -2023.  
7. Subsidy per unit, or in cases where this is not possible, the total amount or the annual amou nt 
budgeted for the subsidy   
Fiscal year 2021 – state aid of EUR 0.516 million from the Estonian state budget . 
Fiscal year 2022 – state aid of EUR 0.075 million from the Estonian state budget . 
8. Duration of a subsidy and/or any other time limits attached to it  
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of a subsidy  
N/A. 
European Maritime and Fisheries Fund (EMFF) 2014 -2020 SUPPORT  
1. Period covered  by the notification  
2021; 2022 . 
2. Policy objective  and/or purpose of the subsidy  
The overall objective of the policy is to ensure that fishing activities contribute to the creation of 
environmental conditions capable of being sustained long -term which are necessary for economic 
and social development. Moreover, it should contribute to inc reased productivity, a fair standard of 
living for the fisheries sector and stable markets, and it should ensure the availability of resources 
and that supplies reach consumers at reasonable prices.  
3. Background  and authority for the subsidy  
The Ministry of Rural Affairs . 
4. Legislation under which it is granted  
− European Union Common Fisheries Policy Regulation (EU) No. 1 380/2013;  
− European Union Common Provisions Regulation (EU) No. 1 303/2013;  
− European Maritime and Fisheries Fund Regulation (EU) No. 5 08/2014;  
− Estonian EMFF Operational Programme 2014 -2020 (EMFF OP 2014 -2020) . 
5. Form of the subsidy  
Grants . G/SCM/N/401/EU/Add.8  
- 38 - 
  6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
Beneficiaries can be operators (natural  or legal persons  who operate  or hold any undertaking  
carrying  out any of the activities  related  to any stage  of production,  processing,  marketing,  
distribution  and retail chains  of fisheries  and aquaculture  products), fishermen or organisations of 
fishermen.  
Rules of eligibility are set out in the regulation of measures financed under EMFF.  
Estonia implements following articles of EMFF:  
• Article 26 – Innovation in fisheries ; 
• Article 28 – Partnerships between scientists and fishermen ; 
• Article 38 - Limitation  of the impact  of fishing  on the marine  environment  and adaptation  of 
fishing  to the protection  of species ; 
• Article 40 - Protection  and restoration  of marine  biodiversity  and ecosystems  and 
compensation  regimes  in the framework of  sustainable  fishing  activities ; 
• Article 41 - Energy efficiency and mitigation of climate change ; 
• Article 43 - Fishing ports, landing sites, auction halls and shelters ; 
• Article 47 – Innovation in aquaculture ; 
• Article 48 – Productive investments in aquacultu re; 
• Article 50 – Promotion of human capital and networking ; 
• Article 51 – Increasing the potential of aquaculture sites ; 
• Article 56 – Animal health and welfare measures ; 
• Article 62 - Support from the EMFF for community –led local development ; 
• Article 63 - Implementation of community –led local development strategies ; 
• Article 64 – Cooperation activities ; 
• Article 66 - Production and marketing plan ; 
• Article 68 – Marketing measures ; 
• Article 69 - Processing of fishery and aquaculture products ; 
• Article 76 – Contro l and enforcement ; 
• Article 77 – Data collection ; 
• Article 78 – Technical assistance ; 
• Article 80 – Integrated Maritime Policy . 
7. Subsidy per unit, or in cases where this is not possible, the total amount or the annual amount 
budgeted for the subsidy  
Fiscal year 2021 – grants of EUR 3.183 million from the Estonian state budget . 
Fiscal year 2022 – grants of EUR 3.647 million from the Estonian state budget . 
8. Duration of a subsidy and/or any other time limits attached to it  
Validation period is according t o EMFF OP 2014 -2020.  
9. Statistical  data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of a subsidy  
N/A  
 
__________