# Official Journal C 316/2013

| | ISSN 1977-091X
  doi:10.3000/1977091X.C_2013.316.eng |
| --- | --- |
| Official Journal
  of the European Union | C 316 |
| | |
| English edition | Information and Notices | Volume 5630 October 2013 |

ISSN 1977-091X

doi:10.3000/1977091X.C_2013.316.eng

Official Journal

of the European Union

C 316

English edition

Information and Notices

Volume 5630 October 2013

---

| Notice No | Contents | page |
| --- | --- | --- |
| | II   Information |
| | INFORMATION FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS, BODIES, OFFICES AND AGENCIES |
| | European Commission |
| 2013/C 316/01 | Authorisation for State aid pursuant to Articles 107 and 108 of the TFEU — Cases where the Commission raises no objections (
  1
  ) | 1 |
| 2013/C 316/02 | Authorisation for State aid pursuant to Articles 107 and 108 of the TFEU — Cases where the Commission raises no objections (
  2
  ) | 6 |
| 2013/C 316/03 | Authorisation for State aid pursuant to Articles 107 and 108 of the TFEU — Cases where the Commission raises no objections (
  2
  ) | 7 |

Notice No

Contents

page

II   Information

INFORMATION FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS, BODIES, OFFICES AND AGENCIES

European Commission

2013/C 316/01

Authorisation for State aid pursuant to Articles 107 and 108 of the TFEU — Cases where the Commission raises no objections (
  1
  )

1

1

2013/C 316/02

Authorisation for State aid pursuant to Articles 107 and 108 of the TFEU — Cases where the Commission raises no objections (
  2
  )

2

6

2013/C 316/03

Authorisation for State aid pursuant to Articles 107 and 108 of the TFEU — Cases where the Commission raises no objections (
  2
  )

2

7

| | IV   Notices |
| --- | --- |
| | NOTICES FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS, BODIES, OFFICES AND AGENCIES |
| | Council |
| 2013/C 316/04 | Council Decision of 21 October 2013 adopting the Council position on draft amending budget No 6 of the European Union for the financial year 2013 | 8 |
| 2013/C 316/05 | Notice for the attention of the persons and entities to which the restrictive measures provided for in Council Decision 2012/642/CFSP and in Council Regulation (EC) No 765/2006, as amended by Council Decision 2013/534/CFSP and implemented by Council Implementing Regulation (EU) No 1054/2013 concerning restrictive measures against Belarus apply | 9 |
| | European Commission |
| 2013/C 316/06 | Euro exchange rates | 10 |
| 2013/C 316/07 | Commission Decision of 22 October 2013 setting up the Commission expert group on taxation of the digital economy | 11 |

IV   Notices

NOTICES FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS, BODIES, OFFICES AND AGENCIES

Council

2013/C 316/04

Council Decision of 21 October 2013 adopting the Council position on draft amending budget No 6 of the European Union for the financial year 2013

8

2013/C 316/05

Notice for the attention of the persons and entities to which the restrictive measures provided for in Council Decision 2012/642/CFSP and in Council Regulation (EC) No 765/2006, as amended by Council Decision 2013/534/CFSP and implemented by Council Implementing Regulation (EU) No 1054/2013 concerning restrictive measures against Belarus apply

9

European Commission

2013/C 316/06

Euro exchange rates

10

2013/C 316/07

Commission Decision of 22 October 2013 setting up the Commission expert group on taxation of the digital economy

11

| | V   Announcements |
| --- | --- |
| | PROCEDURES RELATING TO THE IMPLEMENTATION OF COMPETITION POLICY |
| | European Commission |
| 2013/C 316/08 | Prior notification of a concentration (Case COMP/M.7044 — Blackstone/Goldman Sachs/Rothesay) (
  1
  ) | 13 |
| | OTHER ACTS |
| | European Commission |
| 2013/C 316/09 | Publication of an amendment application pursuant to Article 50(2)(a) of Regulation (EU) No 1151/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council on quality schemes for agricultural products and foodstuffs | 14 |

V   Announcements

PROCEDURES RELATING TO THE IMPLEMENTATION OF COMPETITION POLICY

European Commission

2013/C 316/08

Prior notification of a concentration (Case COMP/M.7044 — Blackstone/Goldman Sachs/Rothesay) (
  1
  )

1

13

OTHER ACTS

European Commission

2013/C 316/09

Publication of an amendment application pursuant to Article 50(2)(a) of Regulation (EU) No 1151/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council on quality schemes for agricultural products and foodstuffs

14

| | |
| --- | --- |
| | (1)   Text with EEA relevance |
| | (2)   Text with EEA relevance, except for products falling under Annex I to the Treaty |

---

(1)   Text with EEA relevance

1

(2)   Text with EEA relevance, except for products falling under Annex I to the Treaty

2

| EN | |
| --- | --- |

EN

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II Information

INFORMATION FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS, BODIES, OFFICES AND AGENCIES

European Commission

| 30.10.2013 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 316/1 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

30.10.2013

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 316/1

---

Authorisation for State aid pursuant to Articles 107 and 108 of the TFEU

Cases where the Commission raises no objections

(Text with EEA relevance)

2013/C 316/01

| Date of adoption of the decision | 2.7.2013 |
| --- | --- |
| Reference number of State Aid | SA.36148 (13/N) |
| Member State | France |
| Region | — | — |
| Title (and/or name of the beneficiary) | Crédits d'impôt cinéma et audiovisuel — modifications pour l'année 2013 |
| Legal basis | — | article 220 sexies du code général des impôts:
  http://www.legifrance.gouv.fr/affichCodeArticle.do?cidTexte=LEGITEXT000006069577&idArticle=LEGIARTI000006303577&dateTexte=&categorieLien=cid |

Date of adoption of the decision

2.7.2013

Reference number of State Aid

SA.36148 (13/N)

Member State

France

Region

—

—

Title (and/or name of the beneficiary)

Crédits d'impôt cinéma et audiovisuel — modifications pour l'année 2013

Legal basis

—

article 220 sexies du code général des impôts:

http://www.legifrance.gouv.fr/affichCodeArticle.do?cidTexte=LEGITEXT000006069577&idArticle=LEGIARTI000006303577&dateTexte=&categorieLien=cid

| — | articles 46 quater-0 YL à 46 quater-0 YO de l'annexe III au code général des impôts:
  http://www.legifrance.gouv.fr/affichCode.do;jsessionid=0E26D753415B2C68C503E5D6EEBF36FC.tpdjo07v_3?idSectionTA=LEGISCTA000006162354&cidTexte=LEGITEXT000006069574&dateTexte=20050503 |
| --- | --- |

—

articles 46 quater-0 YL à 46 quater-0 YO de l'annexe III au code général des impôts:

http://www.legifrance.gouv.fr/affichCode.do;jsessionid=0E26D753415B2C68C503E5D6EEBF36FC.tpdjo07v_3?idSectionTA=LEGISCTA000006162354&cidTexte=LEGITEXT000006069574&dateTexte=20050503

| — | article 33 de la loi 2012-1510 du 29 décembre 2012 de finance rectificative pour 2012:
  http://www.legifrance.gouv.fr/affichTexte.do?cidTexte=JORFTEXT000026857857&fastPos=1&fastReqId=900233340&categorieLien=id&oldAction=rechTexte |
| --- | --- |

—

article 33 de la loi 2012-1510 du 29 décembre 2012 de finance rectificative pour 2012:

http://www.legifrance.gouv.fr/affichTexte.do?cidTexte=JORFTEXT000026857857&fastPos=1&fastReqId=900233340&categorieLien=id&oldAction=rechTexte

| — | Décret no 2006-325 du 20 mars 2006. |
| --- | --- |

—

Décret no 2006-325 du 20 mars 2006.

Type of measure

Scheme

—

Objective

Culture

Form of aid

Tax rate reduction

Budget

| | Overall budget: EUR 210 000 000 |
| --- | --- |

Overall budget: EUR 210 000 000

| | Annual budget: EUR 210 000 000 |
| --- | --- |

Annual budget: EUR 210 000 000

Intensity

20 %

Duration (period)

Until 31.12.2013

Economic sectors

Information and communication

Name and address of the granting authority

| Centre national du cinéma et de l'image animée |
| --- |
| 12 rue de Lübeck |
| 75784 Paris Cedex 16 |
| FRANCE |

Centre national du cinéma et de l'image animée

12 rue de Lübeck

75784 Paris Cedex 16

FRANCE

Other information

—

The authentic text(s) of the decision, from which all confidential information has been removed, can be found at:

http://ec.europa.eu/competition/elojade/isef/index.cfm

| Date of adoption of the decision | 25.7.2013 |
| --- | --- |
| Reference number of State Aid | SA.36249 (13/N-2) |
| Member State | Spain |
| Region | — | — |
| Title (and/or name of the beneficiary) | Amendment of the Restructuring of CEISS through integration with Unicaja Banco |
| Legal basis | 1) | Ley 9/2012, de 14 de noviembre, de reestructuración y resolución de entidades de crédito. |

Date of adoption of the decision

25.7.2013

Reference number of State Aid

SA.36249 (13/N-2)

Member State

Spain

Region

—

—

Title (and/or name of the beneficiary)

Amendment of the Restructuring of CEISS through integration with Unicaja Banco

Legal basis

1)

Ley 9/2012, de 14 de noviembre, de reestructuración y resolución de entidades de crédito.

| 2) | Real Decreto 1559/2012, de 15 de noviembre, por el que se establece el régimen jurídico de las sociedades de gestión de activos. |
| --- | --- |

2)

Real Decreto 1559/2012, de 15 de noviembre, por el que se establece el régimen jurídico de las sociedades de gestión de activos.

| 3) | Acuerdo de la Comisión Rectora del Fondo de Reestructuración Ordenada Bancaria, de 30 de julio de 2012, por el que se detallan los criterios y condiciones a los que se ajustará su actuación en los procesos de reforzamiento de los recursos propios de entidades de crédito en el ámbito de la asistencia financiera europea para la recapitalización. |
| --- | --- |

3)

Acuerdo de la Comisión Rectora del Fondo de Reestructuración Ordenada Bancaria, de 30 de julio de 2012, por el que se detallan los criterios y condiciones a los que se ajustará su actuación en los procesos de reforzamiento de los recursos propios de entidades de crédito en el ámbito de la asistencia financiera europea para la recapitalización.

| 4) | Memorando de Entendimiento sobre condiciones de política sectorial financiera. |
| --- | --- |

4)

Memorando de Entendimiento sobre condiciones de política sectorial financiera.

Type of measure

Ad hoc aid

Banco de Caja España de Inversiones, Salamanca y Soria, SA (Banco CEISS)

Objective

Remedy for a serious disturbance in the economy

Form of aid

Other forms of equity intervention

Budget

—

Intensity

—

Duration (period)

2.5.2013-31.12.2017

Economic sectors

Financial and insurance activities

Name and address of the granting authority

| Fondo de Reestructuración Ordenada Bancaria |
| --- |
| Ministerio de Economía y Competitividad |
| C/ General Perón, 38-17a planta |
| Paseo de la Castellana, 162 |
| 28071 Madrid |
| ESPAÑA |

Fondo de Reestructuración Ordenada Bancaria

Ministerio de Economía y Competitividad

C/ General Perón, 38-17a planta

Paseo de la Castellana, 162

28071 Madrid

ESPAÑA

Other information

—

The authentic text(s) of the decision, from which all confidential information has been removed, can be found at:

http://ec.europa.eu/competition/elojade/isef/index.cfm

| Date of adoption of the decision | 15.7.2013 |
| --- | --- |
| Reference number of State Aid | SA.36333 (13/N) |
| Member State | Bulgaria |
| Region | Bulgaria | — |
| Title (and/or name of the beneficiary) | Цифрови телевизионни декодери за лица с ниски доходи в България |
| Legal basis | 1. | § 209, ал. 8 от Преходните и заключителни разпоредби към Закона за изменение и допълнение на Закона за електронните съобщения (ДВ, бр. 41/2007 с последващи изменения и допълнения). Приложена е pdf версия; |

Date of adoption of the decision

15.7.2013

Reference number of State Aid

SA.36333 (13/N)

Member State

Bulgaria

Region

Bulgaria

—

Title (and/or name of the beneficiary)

Цифрови телевизионни декодери за лица с ниски доходи в България

Legal basis

1.

§ 209, ал. 8 от Преходните и заключителни разпоредби към Закона за изменение и допълнение на Закона за електронните съобщения (ДВ, бр. 41/2007 с последващи изменения и допълнения). Приложена е pdf версия;

| 2. | Постановление No 6 на Министерския съвет от 18 януари 2012 г. и Постановление No 327 на Министерския съвет от 20 декември 2012 г. Приложена е pdf версия; |
| --- | --- |

2.

Постановление No 6 на Министерския съвет от 18 януари 2012 г. и Постановление No 327 на Министерския съвет от 20 декември 2012 г. Приложена е pdf версия;

| 3. | § 4 от Преходните и заключителни разпоредби към Закона за държавния бюджет на Република България за 2012 г. (ДВ, бр. 99/16.12.2011) и § 4 от Преходните и заключителните разпоредби на Закона за държавния бюджет на Република България за 2013 г. (ДВ, бр. 102/21.12.2012). Приложена е pdf версия; |
| --- | --- |

3.

§ 4 от Преходните и заключителни разпоредби към Закона за държавния бюджет на Република България за 2012 г. (ДВ, бр. 99/16.12.2011) и § 4 от Преходните и заключителните разпоредби на Закона за държавния бюджет на Република България за 2013 г. (ДВ, бр. 102/21.12.2012). Приложена е pdf версия;

| 4. | Чл. 12, ал. 4 от Закона за социално подпомагане (ДВ, бр. 32, 24.4.2012). Приложена е pdf версия; |
| --- | --- |

4.

Чл. 12, ал. 4 от Закона за социално подпомагане (ДВ, бр. 32, 24.4.2012). Приложена е pdf версия;

| 5. | Закон за обществените поръчки (обн., ДВ, бр. 28 от 2004 г. с последващи изменения и допълнения); |
| --- | --- |

5.

Закон за обществените поръчки (обн., ДВ, бр. 28 от 2004 г. с последващи изменения и допълнения);

| 6. | Чл. 2 от Наредба No РД 07-5/2008 за условията и реда за отпускане на целева помощ за отопление. Приложена е pdf версия; |
| --- | --- |

6.

Чл. 2 от Наредба No РД 07-5/2008 за условията и реда за отпускане на целева помощ за отопление. Приложена е pdf версия;

| 7. | Открита процедура за възлагане на обществена поръчка с предмет: „Избор на изпълнител за продажба срещу ваучери на крайни декодиращи устройства за осигуряване на достъп до цифрово телевизионно радиоразпръскване/цифров телевизионен сигнал на лица със специфични социални потребности“, публикувана в Регистъра за обществени поръчки на Агенцията за обществени поръчки под номер 00042-2012-0021 (съпътстващата документация е представена и като хипервръзка); |
| --- | --- |

7.

Открита процедура за възлагане на обществена поръчка с предмет: „Избор на изпълнител за продажба срещу ваучери на крайни декодиращи устройства за осигуряване на достъп до цифрово телевизионно радиоразпръскване/цифров телевизионен сигнал на лица със специфични социални потребности“, публикувана в Регистъра за обществени поръчки на Агенцията за обществени поръчки под номер 00042-2012-0021 (съпътстващата документация е представена и като хипервръзка);

| 8. | Постановление No 58 на Министерския съвет от 6 март 2013 г. за осигуряване на средства за крайни декодиращи устройства на лица със специфични социални потребности за приемане на цифрово телевизионно радиоразпръскване и за провеждане на национална информационна кампания за въвеждане на наземно цифрово телевизионно радиоразпръскване. Приложена е pdf версия; |
| --- | --- |

8.

Постановление No 58 на Министерския съвет от 6 март 2013 г. за осигуряване на средства за крайни декодиращи устройства на лица със специфични социални потребности за приемане на цифрово телевизионно радиоразпръскване и за провеждане на национална информационна кампания за въвеждане на наземно цифрово телевизионно радиоразпръскване. Приложена е pdf версия;

...

Type of measure

Scheme

—

Objective

Social support to individual consumers

Form of aid

Direct grant

Budget

| | Overall budget: BGN 15 000 000 |
| --- | --- |

Overall budget: BGN 15 000 000

| | Annual budget: BGN 15 000 000 |
| --- | --- |

Annual budget: BGN 15 000 000

Intensity

100 %

Duration (period)

15.7.2013-30.11.2013

Economic sectors

Other telecommunications activities

Name and address of the granting authority

| Министерство на транспорта, информационните технологии и съобщенията |
| --- |
| Ул. „Дякон Игнатий“ No 9 |
| 1000 София/Sofia |
| БЪЛГАРИЯ/BULGARIA |

Министерство на транспорта, информационните технологии и съобщенията

Ул. „Дякон Игнатий“ No 9

1000 София/Sofia

БЪЛГАРИЯ/BULGARIA

Other information

—

The authentic text(s) of the decision, from which all confidential information has been removed, can be found at:

http://ec.europa.eu/competition/elojade/isef/index.cfm

| Date of adoption of the decision | 29.8.2013 |
| --- | --- |
| Reference number of State Aid | SA.36567 (13/N) |
| Member State | Italy |
| Region | Toscana | — |
| Title (and/or name of the beneficiary) | Bando per la concessione di agevolazioni alle imprese danneggiate dagli eventi alluvionali — Toscana 2012 |
| Legal basis | Legge 24 dicembre 2012 n. 234 capo VIII — Aiuti di Stato — Articolo 47 — Aiuti pubblici per calamità naturali
  Legge 24 dicembre 2012 n. 228 articolo 1 comma 548
  Decreto Presidente Consiglio dei Ministri del 23 marzo 2013 — Ripartizione delle risorse di cui all'articolo 1, comma 548, della legge 24 dicembre 2012 n. 228
  Decreto legislativo 6 giugno 2012 n. 74 — Interventi urgenti in favore delle popolazioni colpite dagli eventi sismici del 20 e 29 maggio 2012
  Legge 24 febbraio 1992 n. 225 Istituzione del servizio nazionale di protezione civile |
| Type of measure | Scheme | — |
| Objective | Compensation of damages caused by natural disaster |
| Form of aid | Direct grant |
| Budget | Overall budget: EUR 20 000 000 |
| Intensity | 75 % |
| Duration (period) | Until 31.12.2014 |
| Economic sectors | All economic sectors eligible to receive aid |
| Name and address of the granting authority | Regione Toscana |
| Piazza Duomo 10 |
| Firenze FI |
| ITALIA |

Date of adoption of the decision

29.8.2013

Reference number of State Aid

SA.36567 (13/N)

Member State

Italy

Region

Toscana

—

Title (and/or name of the beneficiary)

Bando per la concessione di agevolazioni alle imprese danneggiate dagli eventi alluvionali — Toscana 2012

Legal basis

Legge 24 dicembre 2012 n. 234 capo VIII — Aiuti di Stato — Articolo 47 — Aiuti pubblici per calamità naturali

Legge 24 dicembre 2012 n. 228 articolo 1 comma 548

Decreto Presidente Consiglio dei Ministri del 23 marzo 2013 — Ripartizione delle risorse di cui all'articolo 1, comma 548, della legge 24 dicembre 2012 n. 228

Decreto legislativo 6 giugno 2012 n. 74 — Interventi urgenti in favore delle popolazioni colpite dagli eventi sismici del 20 e 29 maggio 2012

Legge 24 febbraio 1992 n. 225 Istituzione del servizio nazionale di protezione civile

Type of measure

Scheme

—

Objective

Compensation of damages caused by natural disaster

Form of aid

Direct grant

Budget

Overall budget: EUR 20 000 000

Intensity

75 %

Duration (period)

Until 31.12.2014

Economic sectors

All economic sectors eligible to receive aid

Name and address of the granting authority

Regione Toscana

Piazza Duomo 10

Firenze FI

ITALIA

Other information

—

The authentic text(s) of the decision, from which all confidential information has been removed, can be found at:

http://ec.europa.eu/competition/elojade/isef/index.cfm

| Date of adoption of the decision | 2.10.2013 |
| --- | --- |
| Reference number of State Aid | SA.37097 (13/N) |
| Member State | Netherlands |
| Region | — | — |
| Title (and/or name of the beneficiary) | Multiplier Giftenaftrek |
| Legal basis | Artikel I, onderdeel E (artikel 6.39a van de Wet inkomstenbelasting 2001) Geefwet
  Artikel IV, onderdeel D (artikel 16 lid 3 van de Wet op de Vennootschapsbelasting 1969) Geefwet
  Amendement Van Vliet
  De verlenging zal geregeld worden in Belastingplan 2014 (art. 10b.1, lid 1, Wet IB 2001 en art. 35 Vpb) |
| Type of measure | Scheme | — |
| Objective | Culture |
| Form of aid | Tax base reduction |
| Budget | | Overall budget: EUR 5 000 000 |

Date of adoption of the decision

2.10.2013

Reference number of State Aid

SA.37097 (13/N)

Member State

Netherlands

Region

—

—

Title (and/or name of the beneficiary)

Multiplier Giftenaftrek

Legal basis

Artikel I, onderdeel E (artikel 6.39a van de Wet inkomstenbelasting 2001) Geefwet

Artikel IV, onderdeel D (artikel 16 lid 3 van de Wet op de Vennootschapsbelasting 1969) Geefwet

Amendement Van Vliet

De verlenging zal geregeld worden in Belastingplan 2014 (art. 10b.1, lid 1, Wet IB 2001 en art. 35 Vpb)

Type of measure

Scheme

—

Objective

Culture

Form of aid

Tax base reduction

Budget

Overall budget: EUR 5 000 000

| | Annual budget: EUR 5 000 000 |
| --- | --- |

Annual budget: EUR 5 000 000

Intensity

0 % — Measure does not constitute aid

Duration (period)

1.1.2017-31.12.2017

Economic sectors

All economic sectors eligible to receive aid

Name and address of the granting authority

| Ministerie van Financiën |
| --- |
| Postbus 20201 |
| 2500 EE Den Haag |
| NEDERLAND |

Ministerie van Financiën

Postbus 20201

2500 EE Den Haag

NEDERLAND

Other information

—

The authentic text(s) of the decision, from which all confidential information has been removed, can be found at:

http://ec.europa.eu/competition/elojade/isef/index.cfm

---

| 30.10.2013 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 316/6 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

30.10.2013

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 316/6

---

Authorisation for State aid pursuant to Articles 107 and 108 of the TFEU

Cases where the Commission raises no objections

(Text with EEA relevance, except for products falling under Annex I to the Treaty)

2013/C 316/02

| Date of adoption of the decision | 16.8.2013 |
| --- | --- |
| Reference number of State Aid | SA.36649 (13/N) |
| Member State | Czech Republic |
| Region | — | — |
| Title (and/or name of the beneficiary) | Podpora vybraných činností zaměřených na ozdravování chovů prasat |
| Legal basis | 1) | Zákon č. 252/1997 Sb., o zemědělství |

Date of adoption of the decision

16.8.2013

Reference number of State Aid

SA.36649 (13/N)

Member State

Czech Republic

Region

—

—

Title (and/or name of the beneficiary)

Podpora vybraných činností zaměřených na ozdravování chovů prasat

Legal basis

1)

Zákon č. 252/1997 Sb., o zemědělství

| 2) | Zákon č. 166/1999 Sb., o veterinární péči a o změnách některých souvisejících zákonů |
| --- | --- |

2)

Zákon č. 166/1999 Sb., o veterinární péči a o změnách některých souvisejících zákonů

| 3) | Zásady, kterými se stanovují podmínky pro poskytování dotací na základě § 2 a § 2d zákona č. 252/1997 Sb., o zemědělství |
| --- | --- |

3)

Zásady, kterými se stanovují podmínky pro poskytování dotací na základě § 2 a § 2d zákona č. 252/1997 Sb., o zemědělství

Type of measure

Scheme

—

Objective

Risk and crisis management (AGRI)

Form of aid

Direct grant

Budget

| | Overall budget: CZK 3 017 000 000 |
| --- | --- |

Overall budget: CZK 3 017 000 000

| | Annual budget: CZK 431 000 000 |
| --- | --- |

Annual budget: CZK 431 000 000

Intensity

100 %

Duration (period)

1.1.2014-31.12.2020

Economic sectors

Animal production

Name and address of the granting authority

| Ministerstvo zemědělství |
| --- |
| Těšnov 17 |
| 117 05 Praha 1 |
| ČESKÁ REPUBLIKA |

Ministerstvo zemědělství

Těšnov 17

117 05 Praha 1

ČESKÁ REPUBLIKA

Other information

—

The authentic text(s) of the decision, from which all confidential information has been removed, can be found at:

http://ec.europa.eu/competition/elojade/isef/index.cfm

---

| 30.10.2013 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 316/7 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

30.10.2013

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 316/7

---

Authorisation for State aid pursuant to Articles 107 and 108 of the TFEU

Cases where the Commission raises no objections

(Text with EEA relevance, except for products falling under Annex I to the Treaty)

2013/C 316/03

| Date of adoption of the decision | 2.10.2013 |
| --- | --- |
| Reference number of State Aid | SA.37033 (13/N) |
| Member State | Spain |
| Region | — | Mixed |
| Title (and/or name of the beneficiary) | Prórroga del régimen SA.24867 (N 10/08) «Subvenciones destinadas al fomento de sistemas de producción en regímenes extensivos» |
| Legal basis | | Real Decreto 1724/2007, de 21 de diciembre, por el que se establecen las bases reguladoras de las subvenciones destinadas al fomento de sistemas de producción de razas ganaderas autóctonas en regímenes extensivos. |

Date of adoption of the decision

2.10.2013

Reference number of State Aid

SA.37033 (13/N)

Member State

Spain

Region

—

Mixed

Title (and/or name of the beneficiary)

Prórroga del régimen SA.24867 (N 10/08) «Subvenciones destinadas al fomento de sistemas de producción en regímenes extensivos»

Legal basis

Real Decreto 1724/2007, de 21 de diciembre, por el que se establecen las bases reguladoras de las subvenciones destinadas al fomento de sistemas de producción de razas ganaderas autóctonas en regímenes extensivos.

| | Ley 38/2003, de 17 de noviembre, General de Subvenciones. |
| --- | --- |

Ley 38/2003, de 17 de noviembre, General de Subvenciones.

Type of measure

Scheme

—

Objective

Agri-environmental commitments

Form of aid

Direct grant

Budget

| | Overall budget: EUR 3,8 million |
| --- | --- |

Overall budget: EUR 3,8 million

| | Annual budget: EUR 3,8 million |
| --- | --- |

Annual budget: EUR 3,8 million

Intensity

100 %

Duration (period)

1.1.2014-31.12.2014

Economic sectors

Crop and animal production, hunting and related service activities

Name and address of the granting authority

| Dirección General de Procucciones y Mercados Agrarios |
| --- |
| Almagro, 33 5a planta |
| 28010 Madrid |
| ESPAÑA |

Dirección General de Procucciones y Mercados Agrarios

Almagro, 33 5a planta

28010 Madrid

ESPAÑA

Other information

—

The authentic text(s) of the decision, from which all confidential information has been removed, can be found at:

http://ec.europa.eu/competition/elojade/isef/index.cfm

---

IV Notices

NOTICES FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS, BODIES, OFFICES AND AGENCIES

Council

| 30.10.2013 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 316/8 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

30.10.2013

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 316/8

---

COUNCIL DECISION

of 21 October 2013

adopting the Council position on draft amending budget No 6 of the European Union for the financial year 2013

2013/C 316/04

THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,

Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, and in particular Article 314 thereof, in conjunction with the Treaty establishing the European Atomic Energy Community, and in particular Article 106a thereof,

Having regard to Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 966/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 25 October 2012 on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the Union and repealing Council Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 1605/2002 (1) and in particular Article 41 thereof,

Whereas:

| — | the Union’s budget for the financial year 2013 was definitively adopted on 12 December 2012 (2), |
| --- | --- |

—

the Union’s budget for the financial year 2013 was definitively adopted on 12 December 2012 (2),

| — | on 10 July 2013, the Commission submitted a proposal containing draft amending budget No 6 to the general budget for the financial year 2013, |
| --- | --- |

—

on 10 July 2013, the Commission submitted a proposal containing draft amending budget No 6 to the general budget for the financial year 2013,

| — | on 20 September 2013, the Commission submitted a proposal containing a letter of amendment to draft amending budget No 6 to the general budget for the financial year 2013, |
| --- | --- |

—

on 20 September 2013, the Commission submitted a proposal containing a letter of amendment to draft amending budget No 6 to the general budget for the financial year 2013,

HAS DECIDED AS FOLLOWS:

Sole Article

The Council’s position on draft amending budget No 6 of the European Union for the financial year 2013, as modified by its letter of amendment, was adopted on 21 October 2013.

The full text can be accessed for consultation or downloading on the Council’s website: http://www.consilium.europa.eu/

Done at Brussels, 21 October 2013.

For the Council

The President

L. LINKEVIČIUS

---

(1)  OJ L 298, 26.10.2012, p. 1.

1

(2)  OJ L 66, 8.3.2013, p. 1, with corrigendum in OJ L 134, 18.5.2013, p. 21.

2

---

| 30.10.2013 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 316/9 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

30.10.2013

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 316/9

---

Notice for the attention of the persons and entities to which the restrictive measures provided for in Council Decision 2012/642/CFSP and in Council Regulation (EC) No 765/2006, as amended by Council Decision 2013/534/CFSP and implemented by Council Implementing Regulation (EU) No 1054/2013 concerning restrictive measures against Belarus apply

2013/C 316/05

The following information is brought to the attention of persons and entities that appear in the Annex to Council Decision 2012/642/CFSP, and in Annex I to Council Regulation (EC) No 765/2006, as amended by Council Decision 2013/534/CFSP (1) and implemented by Council Implementing Regulation (EU) No 1054/2013 (2) concerning restrictive measures against Belarus.

The Council of the European Union has decided that the persons and entities that appear in the above mentioned Annexes should continue to be included in the list of persons and entities subject to the restrictive measures provided for in Decision 2012/642/CFSP and in Regulation (EC) No 765/2006 concerning restrictive measures against Belarus. The grounds for designations of those persons and entities appear in the relevant entries in those Annexes.

The attention of the persons and entities concerned is drawn to the possibility of making an application to the competent authorities of the relevant Member State(s) as indicated in the websites in Annex II to Regulation (EC) No 765/2006, in order to obtain an authorisation to use frozen funds for basic needs or specific payments (cf. Article 3 of the Regulation).

The persons and entities concerned may submit a request to the Council, together with supporting documentation, that the decision to include them on the above mentioned list should be reconsidered, to the following address:

| Council of the European Union |
| --- |
| General Secretariat |
| DG C — Unit 1C (Horizontal Issues) |
| Rue de la Loi/Wetstraat 175 |
| 1048 Bruxelles/Brussel |
| BELGIQUE/BELGIË |

Council of the European Union

General Secretariat

DG C — Unit 1C (Horizontal Issues)

Rue de la Loi/Wetstraat 175

1048 Bruxelles/Brussel

BELGIQUE/BELGIË

The attention of the persons and entities concerned is also drawn to the possibility of challenging the Council's decision before the General Court of the European Union, in accordance with the conditions laid down in Article 275, second paragraph, and Article 263, fourth and sixth paragraphs, of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union.

---

(1)  OJ L 288, 30.10.2013, p. 69.

(2)  OJ L 288, 30.10.2013, p. 1.

---

European Commission

| 30.10.2013 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 316/10 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

30.10.2013

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 316/10

---

Euro exchange rates (1)

29 October 2013

2013/C 316/06

1 euro =

| | Currency | Exchange rate |
| --- | --- | --- |
| USD | US dollar | 1,3768 |
| JPY | Japanese yen | 134,88 |
| DKK | Danish krone | 7,4589 |
| GBP | Pound sterling | 0,85670 |
| SEK | Swedish krona | 8,7695 |
| CHF | Swiss franc | 1,2358 |
| ISK | Iceland króna | |
| NOK | Norwegian krone | 8,1195 |
| BGN | Bulgarian lev | 1,9558 |
| CZK | Czech koruna | 25,762 |
| HUF | Hungarian forint | 293,14 |
| LTL | Lithuanian litas | 3,4528 |
| LVL | Latvian lats | 0,7028 |
| PLN | Polish zloty | 4,1838 |
| RON | Romanian leu | 4,4420 |
| TRY | Turkish lira | 2,7388 |
| AUD | Australian dollar | 1,4505 |
| CAD | Canadian dollar | 1,4379 |
| HKD | Hong Kong dollar | 10,6749 |
| NZD | New Zealand dollar | 1,6667 |
| SGD | Singapore dollar | 1,7075 |
| KRW | South Korean won | 1 463,17 |
| ZAR | South African rand | 13,6012 |
| CNY | Chinese yuan renminbi | 8,3855 |
| HRK | Croatian kuna | 7,6245 |
| IDR | Indonesian rupiah | 15 286,09 |
| MYR | Malaysian ringgit | 4,3304 |
| PHP | Philippine peso | 59,317 |
| RUB | Russian rouble | 44,1140 |
| THB | Thai baht | 42,763 |
| BRL | Brazilian real | 3,0029 |
| MXN | Mexican peso | 17,7841 |
| INR | Indian rupee | 84,6320 |

Currency

Exchange rate

USD

US dollar

1,3768

JPY

Japanese yen

134,88

DKK

Danish krone

7,4589

GBP

Pound sterling

0,85670

SEK

Swedish krona

8,7695

CHF

Swiss franc

1,2358

ISK

Iceland króna

NOK

Norwegian krone

8,1195

BGN

Bulgarian lev

1,9558

CZK

Czech koruna

25,762

HUF

Hungarian forint

293,14

LTL

Lithuanian litas

3,4528

LVL

Latvian lats

0,7028

PLN

Polish zloty

4,1838

RON

Romanian leu

4,4420

TRY

Turkish lira

2,7388

AUD

Australian dollar

1,4505

CAD

Canadian dollar

1,4379

HKD

Hong Kong dollar

10,6749

NZD

New Zealand dollar

1,6667

SGD

Singapore dollar

1,7075

KRW

South Korean won

1 463,17

ZAR

South African rand

13,6012

CNY

Chinese yuan renminbi

8,3855

HRK

Croatian kuna

7,6245

IDR

Indonesian rupiah

15 286,09

MYR

Malaysian ringgit

4,3304

PHP

Philippine peso

59,317

RUB

Russian rouble

44,1140

THB

Thai baht

42,763

BRL

Brazilian real

3,0029

MXN

Mexican peso

17,7841

INR

Indian rupee

84,6320

---

(1)  Source: reference exchange rate published by the ECB.

---

| 30.10.2013 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 316/11 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

30.10.2013

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 316/11

---

COMMISSION DECISION

of 22 October 2013

setting up the Commission expert group on taxation of the digital economy

2013/C 316/07

THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION,

Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union,

Whereas:

| (1) | Articles 113 and 115 of the Treaty assigned the European Union and the Member States the task of ensuring the establishment and functioning of the internal market. |
| --- | --- |

(1)

Articles 113 and 115 of the Treaty assigned the European Union and the Member States the task of ensuring the establishment and functioning of the internal market.

| (2) | With a view to developing a comprehensive Union position on tax issues in the digital economy, the Commission may need to call upon the expertise of specialists in an advisory body. |
| --- | --- |

(2)

With a view to developing a comprehensive Union position on tax issues in the digital economy, the Commission may need to call upon the expertise of specialists in an advisory body.

| (3) | It is therefore necessary to set up a group of experts in the field of taxation of the digital economy and to define its tasks and its structure. |
| --- | --- |

(3)

It is therefore necessary to set up a group of experts in the field of taxation of the digital economy and to define its tasks and its structure.

| (4) | The expert group should help to develop a comprehensive Union position on tax issues in the digital economy by analysing the issues at stake and providing the Commission with a range of solutions to address these issues. |
| --- | --- |

(4)

The expert group should help to develop a comprehensive Union position on tax issues in the digital economy by analysing the issues at stake and providing the Commission with a range of solutions to address these issues.

| (5) | The expert group should be relatively small to allow for rapid progress and results. It should be composed of individuals with an in-depth understanding of and practical experience in the digital economy, of individuals with an academic background in taxation or economics or in both and of individuals with a specialised taxation background and, preferably, practical experience in taxing the digital economy. To demonstrate the authority of the group and to ensure its independence, the group should be chaired by a member with significant political experience. |
| --- | --- |

(5)

The expert group should be relatively small to allow for rapid progress and results. It should be composed of individuals with an in-depth understanding of and practical experience in the digital economy, of individuals with an academic background in taxation or economics or in both and of individuals with a specialised taxation background and, preferably, practical experience in taxing the digital economy. To demonstrate the authority of the group and to ensure its independence, the group should be chaired by a member with significant political experience.

| (6) | Rules on the disclosure of information by members of the expert group should be laid down. |
| --- | --- |

(6)

Rules on the disclosure of information by members of the expert group should be laid down.

| (7) | Personal data should be processed in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 45/2001 of the European Parliament and of the Council (1). |
| --- | --- |

(7)

Personal data should be processed in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 45/2001 of the European Parliament and of the Council (1).

| (8) | It is appropriate to fix a period for the application of this Decision, |
| --- | --- |

(8)

It is appropriate to fix a period for the application of this Decision,

HAS DECIDED AS FOLLOWS:

Article 1

Subject matter

The expert group on taxation of the digital economy, hereinafter referred to as ‘the expert group’, is hereby set up.

Article 2

Tasks

1.   The tasks of the expert group shall be:

| (a) | to assist the Commission in the preparation of legislative proposals or other policy initiatives; |
| --- | --- |

(a)

to assist the Commission in the preparation of legislative proposals or other policy initiatives;

| (b) | to monitor the evolution of taxation policy related to the digital economy; |
| --- | --- |

(b)

to monitor the evolution of taxation policy related to the digital economy;

| (c) | to bring about an exchange of experience and good practice in the field of taxing the digital economy; |
| --- | --- |

(c)

to bring about an exchange of experience and good practice in the field of taxing the digital economy;

| (d) | to contribute ideas for the taxation of the digital economy and review possible alternative bases for taxation to those currently in place, taking into account the specifics of the EU, but also taking into account developing global policy responses; |
| --- | --- |

(d)

to contribute ideas for the taxation of the digital economy and review possible alternative bases for taxation to those currently in place, taking into account the specifics of the EU, but also taking into account developing global policy responses;

| (e) | to provide a comprehensive analysis of the relation between the operations of companies active in the digital economy within the EU and their direct or indirect contribution to the tax revenues of Member States, and of any deficiencies in the adaptation of current international tax rules to the digital economy; |
| --- | --- |

(e)

to provide a comprehensive analysis of the relation between the operations of companies active in the digital economy within the EU and their direct or indirect contribution to the tax revenues of Member States, and of any deficiencies in the adaptation of current international tax rules to the digital economy;

| (f) | to provide the Commission with a range of possible solutions to address the most important issues identified during the analysis referred to in point (e), stating the risks, possible consequences and economic and financial impact for the EU of each of the solutions. |
| --- | --- |

(f)

to provide the Commission with a range of possible solutions to address the most important issues identified during the analysis referred to in point (e), stating the risks, possible consequences and economic and financial impact for the EU of each of the solutions.

2.   The expert group shall provide the Commission with a report on its work before 1 July 2014.

Article 3

Consultation

The Commission may consult the expert group on any matter relating to taxation of the digital economy.

Article 4

Membership — Appointment

1.   The expert group shall be composed of a minimum of six and a maximum of seven members:

| (a) | one member appointed in a personal capacity, having a general economic, legal or financial background and a high political profile; |
| --- | --- |

(a)

one member appointed in a personal capacity, having a general economic, legal or financial background and a high political profile;

| (b) | one or two members appointed in a personal capacity, having an in-depth understanding of and practical experience in the digital economy; |
| --- | --- |

(b)

one or two members appointed in a personal capacity, having an in-depth understanding of and practical experience in the digital economy;

| (c) | one or two members appointed in a personal capacity, having a primarily academic profile in taxation or economics or in both; |
| --- | --- |

(c)

one or two members appointed in a personal capacity, having a primarily academic profile in taxation or economics or in both;

| (d) | one or two members appointed in a personal capacity, having a specialised taxation background, preferably with practical experience in taxing the digital economy. |
| --- | --- |

(d)

one or two members appointed in a personal capacity, having a specialised taxation background, preferably with practical experience in taxing the digital economy.

2.   The member referred to in point (a) of paragraph 1 shall be appointed by the Commissioner responsible for Taxation and Customs Union. The members referred to in points (b), (c) and (d) of paragraph 1 shall be appointed by the Director-General for Taxation and Customs Union from specialists with competence in the areas referred to in Articles 2 and 3 who have responded to the call for applications.

3.   Members are appointed for the period until 1 July 2014. They shall remain in office until the end of their term of office unless they are excluded or replaced.

4.   Members who are no longer capable of contributing effectively to the group's deliberations, who resign or who do not comply with the conditions set out in the second subparagraph of paragraph 2 of this Article, or Article 399 of the Treaty, may be excluded or replaced for the remainder of their term of office.

5.   The members shall act independently and in the public interest.

6.   The names of the members shall be published in the Register of Commission expert groups and other similar entities (‘the Register’).

7.   Personal data shall be collected, processed and published in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 45/2001.

Article 5

Operation

1.   The expert group shall be chaired by the member referred to in Article 4(1)(a).

2.   The Commissioner responsible for Taxation and Customs Union shall nominate a Commission's representative who may invite experts from outside the expert group with specific competence in a subject on the agenda to participate in the work of the group on an ad hoc basis.

3.   Members of the expert group, as well as invited experts, shall comply with the obligations of professional secrecy laid down by the Treaties and their implementing rules, as well as with the Commission's rules on security regarding the protection of EU classified information, laid down in the Annex to Commission Decision 2001/844/EC, ECSC, Euratom of 29 November 2001 amending its internal Rules of Procedure (2). Should they fail to respect these obligations, the Commission may take all appropriate measures.

4.   The meetings of the expert group shall be held on Commission premises unless the expert group decides otherwise, subject to approval of the Commission's representative. The Commission shall provide secretarial services. Other Commission officials with an interest in the proceedings may attend meetings of the expert group.

5.   The expert group shall adopt its rules of procedure on the basis of the standard rules of procedure for expert groups.

6.   The Commission shall make available all relevant documents, such as the agendas and minutes of the group and its participants’ submissions, either on the Register or via a link from the Register to a dedicated web page where information can be found. Documents shall not be made available where their disclosure would undermine the protection of a public or private interest as defined in Article 4 of Regulation (EC) No 1049/2001.

Article 6

Meeting expenses

1.   Participants in the activities of the expert group shall not be remunerated for the services they render.

2.   Travel and subsistence expenses incurred by participants in the activities of the expert group shall be reimbursed by the Commission in accordance with the provisions in force within the Commission.

3.   The expenses referred to in paragraph 2 shall be reimbursed within the limits of the available appropriations allocated under the annual procedure for the allocation of resources.

Article 7

Applicability

This Decision shall apply until 1 July 2014.

Done at Brussels, 22 October 2013.

For the Commission

Algirdas ŠEMETA

Member of the Commission

---

(1)  OJ L 8, 12.1.2001, p. 1.

1

(2)  OJ L 317, 3.12.2001, p. 1.

2

---

V Announcements

PROCEDURES RELATING TO THE IMPLEMENTATION OF COMPETITION POLICY

European Commission

| 30.10.2013 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 316/13 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

30.10.2013

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 316/13

---

Prior notification of a concentration

(Case COMP/M.7044 — Blackstone/Goldman Sachs/Rothesay)

(Text with EEA relevance)

2013/C 316/08

| 1. | On 25 October 2013, the Commission received a notification of a proposed concentration pursuant to Article 4 of Council Regulation (EC) No 139/2004 (1) by which the Blackstone Group LP (‘Blackstone’, USA) and Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (‘Goldman Sachs’ USA) acquire within the meaning of Article 3(1)(b) of the Merger Regulation joint control of the undertaking Rothesay Holdco UK Limited (‘Rothesay’, UK) by way of purchase of shares. |
| --- | --- |

1.

On 25 October 2013, the Commission received a notification of a proposed concentration pursuant to Article 4 of Council Regulation (EC) No 139/2004 (1) by which the Blackstone Group LP (‘Blackstone’, USA) and Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (‘Goldman Sachs’ USA) acquire within the meaning of Article 3(1)(b) of the Merger Regulation joint control of the undertaking Rothesay Holdco UK Limited (‘Rothesay’, UK) by way of purchase of shares.

| 2. | The business activities of the undertakings concerned are:






  — | Blackstone Group: alternative asset management and provision of financial advisory services in the US, EEA and China, |
| --- | --- | --- |

2.

The business activities of the undertakings concerned are:

—

Blackstone Group: alternative asset management and provision of financial advisory services in the US, EEA and China,

| — | Goldman Sachs Group: global investment banking, securities and investment management, providing a wide range of banking securities and investment services worldwide, |
| --- | --- |

—

Goldman Sachs Group: global investment banking, securities and investment management, providing a wide range of banking securities and investment services worldwide,

| — | Rothesay: provision of insurance services, in particular de-risking products such as buy-out solutions, buy-in solutions and longevity swaps in the UK. |
| --- | --- |

—

Rothesay: provision of insurance services, in particular de-risking products such as buy-out solutions, buy-in solutions and longevity swaps in the UK.

| 3. | On preliminary examination, the Commission finds that the notified transaction could fall within the scope the EC Merger Regulation. However, the final decision on this point is reserved. |
| --- | --- |

3.

On preliminary examination, the Commission finds that the notified transaction could fall within the scope the EC Merger Regulation. However, the final decision on this point is reserved.

| 4. | The Commission invites interested third parties to submit their possible observations on the proposed operation to the Commission.
  Observations must reach the Commission not later than 10 days following the date of this publication. Observations can be sent to the Commission by fax (+32 22964301), by e-mail to COMP-MERGER-REGISTRY@ec.europa.eu or by post, under reference number COMP/M.7044 — Blackstone/Goldman Sachs/Rothesay, to the following address:





  European Commission |
| --- | --- |
| Directorate-General for Competition |
| Merger Registry |
| 1049 Bruxelles/Brussel |
| BELGIQUE/BELGIË |

4.

The Commission invites interested third parties to submit their possible observations on the proposed operation to the Commission.

Observations must reach the Commission not later than 10 days following the date of this publication. Observations can be sent to the Commission by fax (+32 22964301), by e-mail to COMP-MERGER-REGISTRY@ec.europa.eu or by post, under reference number COMP/M.7044 — Blackstone/Goldman Sachs/Rothesay, to the following address:

European Commission

Directorate-General for Competition

Merger Registry

1049 Bruxelles/Brussel

BELGIQUE/BELGIË

---

(1)  OJ L 24, 29.1.2004, p. 1 (the ‘EC Merger Regulation’).

---

OTHER ACTS

European Commission

| 30.10.2013 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 316/14 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

30.10.2013

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 316/14

---

Publication of an amendment application pursuant to Article 50(2)(a) of Regulation (EU) No 1151/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council on quality schemes for agricultural products and foodstuffs

2013/C 316/09

This publication confers the right to oppose the application pursuant to Article 51 of Regulation (EU) No 1151/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council (1).

AMENDMENT APPLICATION

COUNCIL REGULATION (EC) No 510/2006

on the protection of geographical indications and designations of origin for agricultural products and foodstuffs
   (2)

AMENDMENT APPLICATION IN ACCORDANCE WITH ARTICLE 9

‘NEUFCHÂTEL’

EC No: FR-PDO-0117-01086-19.01.2013

PGI ( ) PDO ( X )

1.   Heading in the product specification affected by the amendment

| — |  | Name of product |
| --- | --- | --- |
| — | ☒ | Description of product |
| — |  | Geographical area |
| — | ☒ | Proof of origin |
| — | ☒ | Method of production |
| — | ☒ | Link |
| — | ☒ | Labelling |
| — | ☒ | National requirements |
| — |  | Other (to be specified) |

—



Name of product

—

☒

Description of product

—



Geographical area

—

☒

Proof of origin

—

☒

Method of production

—

☒

Link

—

☒

Labelling

—

☒

National requirements

—



Other (to be specified)

2.   Type of amendment(s)

| — |  | Amendment to Single Document or Summary Sheet |
| --- | --- | --- |
| — | ☒ | Amendment to Specification of registered PDO or PGI for which neither the Single Document nor the Summary Sheet has been published |
| — |  | Amendment to Specification that requires no amendment to the published Single Document (Article 9(3) of Regulation (EC) No 510/2006) |
| — |  | Temporary amendment to Specification resulting from imposition of obligatory sanitary or phytosanitary measures by public authorities (Article 9(4) of Regulation (EC) No 510/2006) |

—



Amendment to Single Document or Summary Sheet

—

☒

Amendment to Specification of registered PDO or PGI for which neither the Single Document nor the Summary Sheet has been published

—



Amendment to Specification that requires no amendment to the published Single Document (Article 9(3) of Regulation (EC) No 510/2006)

—



Temporary amendment to Specification resulting from imposition of obligatory sanitary or phytosanitary measures by public authorities (Article 9(4) of Regulation (EC) No 510/2006)

3.   Amendment(s)

3.1.   Description

This point has been re-written in its entirety for the sake of clarity and precision.

The terms ‘lactic, supple, no tendency to collapse, firm but not excessively so, non-sticky, non-runny and non-grainy’ are added to describe the paste of the cheese in more detail.

Instead of reading ‘In accordance with custom, it can take the following form ... 2,4 cm high’ read ‘ “Neufchâtel” takes the form of a cylindrical log, square, briquette, double log, heart or big heart according to the shapes and dimensions of the moulds described in Chapter 5.’

New: ‘At the end of the minimum ripening period laid down in Chapter 5 concerning the method of production’

The requirement for a minimum ripening period pursuant to Chapter 5 — the method of production is laid down in more detail by specifying that the weights and the minimum fat and dry matter contents apply to the finished product at the end of this period.

3.2.   Proof of origin

This heading specifies the means of identifying all the operators and keeping registers and declarations enabling the registration of the operators’ practices and/or stock accounts for the products.

3.3.   Method of production

This point has been re-written in its entirety for the sake of greater clarity and precision. The following amendments are required:

| — | New: ‘As from 1 June 2017, at least 60 % of the herd of each producer of milk intended for the production of “Neufchâtel” must consist of animals of the Normande breed. For the purpose of this specification, “herd” means the entire dairy herd of a holding composed of lactating cows, dry cows and replacement heifers’ and ‘Only milk from the previously defined herds may be introduced into the premises used for the production of “Neufchâtel”, from the delivery of the milk to the ripening of the cheeses.’
  New conditions for the production of milk have been added. Their purpose is to ensure that a majority of the cows in the producers’ herds are cows of the local breed, the Normande breed. At the time when ‘Neufchâtel’ was recognised as a controlled designation of origin in 1969 the experts did not deem it necessary to include in their decree any mention of the use of the Normande breed and its mainly grass-based feed, as these practices were commonplace among breeders and did not risk being replaced by others. Over time new practices such as the use of maize silage and the Prim’Holstein breed were introduced and became more widespread, while producers became increasingly aware of the importance of the Normande breed and grass for the specific nature and the image of ‘Neufchâtel’. In order to stop this trend, re-establish the production conditions that existed when this product earned its reputation and thus strengthen the link between the product and its geographical area, the group wanted to specify the method of milk production by setting a minimum requirement for the proportion of cows of the Normande breed and of grassland used as pasture. These new provisions help the ‘Neufchâtel’ designation to strengthen its link with the product’s origin, taking into account the long relationship between the region’s breeders and the animal, the way the local breed has adapted to its surroundings and the special qualities of this breed’s milk that make it so well suited to cheese-making. An adjustment period of 5 years as from 1 June 2012 has been laid down for producers not yet complying with the stipulated proportion of cows of the Normande breed.
  Furthermore, the group wanted to add replacement heifers to their definition of dairy herd. |
| --- | --- |

—

New: ‘As from 1 June 2017, at least 60 % of the herd of each producer of milk intended for the production of “Neufchâtel” must consist of animals of the Normande breed. For the purpose of this specification, “herd” means the entire dairy herd of a holding composed of lactating cows, dry cows and replacement heifers’ and ‘Only milk from the previously defined herds may be introduced into the premises used for the production of “Neufchâtel”, from the delivery of the milk to the ripening of the cheeses.’

New conditions for the production of milk have been added. Their purpose is to ensure that a majority of the cows in the producers’ herds are cows of the local breed, the Normande breed. At the time when ‘Neufchâtel’ was recognised as a controlled designation of origin in 1969 the experts did not deem it necessary to include in their decree any mention of the use of the Normande breed and its mainly grass-based feed, as these practices were commonplace among breeders and did not risk being replaced by others. Over time new practices such as the use of maize silage and the Prim’Holstein breed were introduced and became more widespread, while producers became increasingly aware of the importance of the Normande breed and grass for the specific nature and the image of ‘Neufchâtel’. In order to stop this trend, re-establish the production conditions that existed when this product earned its reputation and thus strengthen the link between the product and its geographical area, the group wanted to specify the method of milk production by setting a minimum requirement for the proportion of cows of the Normande breed and of grassland used as pasture. These new provisions help the ‘Neufchâtel’ designation to strengthen its link with the product’s origin, taking into account the long relationship between the region’s breeders and the animal, the way the local breed has adapted to its surroundings and the special qualities of this breed’s milk that make it so well suited to cheese-making. An adjustment period of 5 years as from 1 June 2012 has been laid down for producers not yet complying with the stipulated proportion of cows of the Normande breed.

Furthermore, the group wanted to add replacement heifers to their definition of dairy herd.

| — | New: ‘The dairy cows graze for at least six months a year. During this period, grazing provides more than 50 % of the basic ration on a dry matter basis. (...)’
  These provisions define the feeding conditions of dairy cows also for the purpose of strengthening the link between the cheese and its origin. It is specified that 80 % of the fodder for dairy cows, on a dry matter basis, comes from the holding. The grazing conditions of dairy cows and the load rules within each holding (minimum area of pasturable grassland per lactating cow, maximum area under maize silage production per dairy cow, management of grasslands) are also laid down. These provisions aim at preserving and increasing the proportion of grass in the feed of the dairy cows. |
| --- | --- |

—

New: ‘The dairy cows graze for at least six months a year. During this period, grazing provides more than 50 % of the basic ration on a dry matter basis. (...)’

These provisions define the feeding conditions of dairy cows also for the purpose of strengthening the link between the cheese and its origin. It is specified that 80 % of the fodder for dairy cows, on a dry matter basis, comes from the holding. The grazing conditions of dairy cows and the load rules within each holding (minimum area of pasturable grassland per lactating cow, maximum area under maize silage production per dairy cow, management of grasslands) are also laid down. These provisions aim at preserving and increasing the proportion of grass in the feed of the dairy cows.

| — | New: ‘In milk production, milk may not be stored on the farm prior to collection for more than 48 hours from the first milking. (...) fresh cheese and cheese undergoing the ripening process may not be conserved under a modified atmosphere.’
  All of the production conditions of the cheese have been set out in order to better preserve the characteristics of the product. Strict rules apply to the storage of milk on the farm prior to its use as well as to the renneting, draining and pressing of the curd. The moulding and processing of the paste obtained are defined in detail, as are the ripening conditions.
  The use of treatments and additives in cheese-making used to be subject to general rules. However, new techniques, some of which concern treatments and additives, such as microfiltration, partial concentration of milk or enzymes for the ripening process, have a potential impact on the characteristics of cheeses with designations of origin. In particular, certain enzyme additives appear to be incompatible with preservation of the key characteristics of PDO products. It therefore became necessary to stipulate in the specification of each product with a designation of origin the current practices regarding the use of treatments and additives for milk and cheese production to prevent future practices not covered by the rules from undermining the characteristics of cheeses with designations of origin.
  The formats of the moulds have also been specified in this paragraph. This amendment, which proposes substituting these more precise dimensions for the dimensions of the finished product included previously in the specification, follows an investigation by the group concerning the dimensions of the moulds used. |
| --- | --- |

—

New: ‘In milk production, milk may not be stored on the farm prior to collection for more than 48 hours from the first milking. (...) fresh cheese and cheese undergoing the ripening process may not be conserved under a modified atmosphere.’

All of the production conditions of the cheese have been set out in order to better preserve the characteristics of the product. Strict rules apply to the storage of milk on the farm prior to its use as well as to the renneting, draining and pressing of the curd. The moulding and processing of the paste obtained are defined in detail, as are the ripening conditions.

The use of treatments and additives in cheese-making used to be subject to general rules. However, new techniques, some of which concern treatments and additives, such as microfiltration, partial concentration of milk or enzymes for the ripening process, have a potential impact on the characteristics of cheeses with designations of origin. In particular, certain enzyme additives appear to be incompatible with preservation of the key characteristics of PDO products. It therefore became necessary to stipulate in the specification of each product with a designation of origin the current practices regarding the use of treatments and additives for milk and cheese production to prevent future practices not covered by the rules from undermining the characteristics of cheeses with designations of origin.

The formats of the moulds have also been specified in this paragraph. This amendment, which proposes substituting these more precise dimensions for the dimensions of the finished product included previously in the specification, follows an investigation by the group concerning the dimensions of the moulds used.

3.4.   Link with the geographical area

This point is clarified and reorganised into 3 points. It discusses how to maintain the special characteristics of ‘Neufchâtel’ obtained through diversified authorised practices. The history of the Normande breed and its importance to the special characteristics of ‘Neufchâtel’ are explained (historical breed of Pays de Bray whose milk is exceptionally well suited to cheese-making owing to its high casein and fat content).

3.5.   Labelling

The particulars that are compulsory on the labelling are set out. The obligation to use the INAO logo is waived.

Labels must bear the ‘AOP’ (PDO) logo of the European Union.

3.6.   National requirements

The main points to be checked in the specification and the related assessment methods have been added.

SINGLE DOCUMENT

COUNCIL REGULATION (EC) No 510/2006

on the protection of geographical indications and designations of origin for agricultural products and foodstuffs
   (3)

‘NEUFCHÂTEL’

EC No: FR-PDO-0117-01086-19.01.2013

PGI ( ) PDO ( X )

1.   Name

‘Neufchâtel’

2.   Member State or Third Country

France

3.   Description of the agricultural product or foodstuff

3.1.   Type of product

| Class 1.3. | Cheeses |
| --- | --- |

Class 1.3.

Cheeses

3.2.   Description of product to which the name in (1) applies

‘Neufchâtel’ is a cheese made exclusively from renneted cow’s milk the curds of which are taken out and pressed before moulding; it has a soft, lactic, slightly salty paste without holes that is supple, does not collapse, is firm but not excessively so, velvety and smooth, non-sticky, non-runny and non-grainy. It has a surface mould that is white in colour and the rind has no holes.

‘Neufchâtel’ takes the following forms: cylindrical log, square, briquette, double log, heart, big heart.

At the end of the minimum ripening period (at least 10 days calculated from the moulding date), a log, square or briquette of ‘Neufchâtel’ weighs at least 100 g; a heart or double log 200 g and a big heart 600 g.

The cheese contains a minimum of 45 grams of fat per 100 grams of cheese when completely dry and 40 grams of dry matter per 100 grams of cheese.

3.3.   Raw materials (for processed products only)

‘Neufchâtel’ is made from cow’s milk. The milk used for the production of ‘Neufchâtel’ comes from herds composed mainly of cows of the Normande breed (60 % as from 1 June 2017).

3.4.   Feed (for products of animal origin only)

The dairy cows graze for at least six months a year. During this period, grazing provides more than 50 % of the basic ration on a dry matter basis.

The holding has at least 0,25 ha of pasturable grassland per lactating cow and not more than 0,25 ha of area under maize silage production for the herd per milk cow in the herd.

A derogation from the above-mentioned provisions on grazing may be granted until 1 January 2015, provided that the holding has at least 0,5 ha of grazing land per milk cow in the herd.

Pasturable grassland includes permanent and temporary grassland. They are accessible to lactating cows and adequate for feeding these animals.

Eighty per cent of the fodder for dairy cows, on a dry matter basis, comes from the holding. The fodder is composed of the following roughage in fresh or preserved form: grass, maize, straw, alfalfa, whole or pulped fodder beet.

The preserved grass and maize containing less than 50 % of dry matter must not exceed 50 % of the weight of the daily ration calculated on the basis of the dry matter.

The amount of complementary feed provided is restricted to 1 800 kg per dairy cow in the herd per calendar year. It is defined in accordance with a positive list.

3.5.   Specific steps in production that must take place in the defined geographical area

The milk is produced and the cheese manufactured and ripened in the geographical area.

3.6.   Specific rules on slicing, grating, packaging, etc.

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3.7.   Specific rules concerning labelling

In addition to the regulatory information requirements applicable to all cheeses, each cheese with the designation of origin ‘Neufchâtel’ is marketed under an individual label containing the name of the designation of origin in characters at least two-thirds the size of the largest characters on the label.

The words ‘Appellation d’Origine Protégée’ and the EU PDO logo must be added to the label of cheeses with the Protected Designation of Origin ‘Neufchâtel’.

The name ‘Neufchâtel’ followed by the words ‘Appellation d’Origine Protégée’ or ‘AOP’ must appear on invoices and commercial documents.

4.   Concise definition of the geographical area

Pays de Bray, covering part of the departments of Oise and Seine-Maritime.

It includes in the department of Oise (60) the municipality of Quincampoix-Fleuzy; in the department of Seine-Maritime (76), the municipalities of Argueil, Aubéguimont, Aubermesnil-aux-Erables, Aumale, Auvilliers, Avesnes-en-Bray, Bailleul-Neuville, Baillolet, Beaubec-la-Rosière, Beaussault, Beauvoir-en-Lyons, La Bellière, Bois-Guilbert, Bois-Héroult, Bosc-Bordel, Bosc-Edeline, Bosc-Mesnil, Bosc-Roger-sur-Buchy, Bouelles, Bradiancourt, Brémontier-Merval, Buchy, Bully, Bures-en-Bray, Callengeville, Le Caule-Sainte-Beuve, La Chapelle-Saint-Ouen, Clais, Compainville, Conteville, Criquiers, Croixdalle, Cuy-Saint-Fiacre, Dampierre-en-Bray, Dancourt, Doudeauville, Elbeuf-en-Bray, Ernemont-sur-Buchy, Esclavelles, Fallencourt, Ferrieres-en-Bray, La Ferté-Saint-Samson, Fesques, La Feuillie, Flamets-Frétils, Fontaine-en-Bray, Forges-les-Eaux, Le Fossé, Foucarmont, Fréauville, Fresles, Fresnoy-Folny, Freulleville, Fry, Gaillefontaine, Gancourt-Saint-Etienne, Gournay-en-Bray, Grandcourt, Graval, Grumesnil, La Hallotière, Haucourt, Haudricourt, Haussez, Héronchelles, Hodeng-Hodenger, Illois, Landes-Vieilles-et-Neuves, Londinières, Longmesnil, Lucy, Marques, Massy, Mathonville, Maucomble, Mauquenchy, Ménerval, Ménonval, Mésangueville, Mesnières-en-Bray, Mesnil-Follemprise, Le Mesnil-Lieubray, Mesnil-Mauger, Meulers, Molagnies, Montérolier, Mortemer, Nesle-Hodeng, Neufbosc, Neufchâtel-en-Bray, Neuville-Ferrières, Nolléval, Notre-Dame-d'Aliermont, Nullemont, Osmoy-Saint-Valery, Pommereux, Pommeréval, Preuseville, Puisenval, Quièvrecourt, Réalcamp, Rétonval, Ricarville-du-Val, Richemont, Roncherolles-en-Bray, Ronchois, Rouvray-Catillon, Sainte-Agathe-d'Aliermont, Sainte-Beuve-en-Rivière, Sainte-Croix-sur-Buchy, Sainte-Geneviève, Saint-Germain-sur-Eaulne, Saint-Jacques-d'Aliermont, Saint-Léger-aux-Bois, Saint-Martin-au-Bosc, Saint-Martin-l'Hortier, Saint-Martin-Osmonville, Saint-Michel-d'Halescourt, Saint-Pierre-des-Jonquières, Saint-Riquier-en-Rivière, Saint-Saëns, Saint-Saire, Saint-Vaast-d'Equiqueville, Saumont-la-Poterie, Serqueux, Sigy-en-Bray, Smermesnil, Sommery, Le Thil-Riberpré, Vatierville, Ventes-Saint-Rémy, Villers-sous-Foucarmont, Wanchy-Capval.

5.   Link with the geographical area

5.1.   Specificity of the geographical area

Natural factors

Geomorphologically, Pays de Bray is located on an eroded chalk anticline of the Bassin parisien. Eaten away by erosion, its relief resembles an ‘eyelet’ surrounded by two cuestas facing each other. The geographical production area of ‘Neufchâtel’ consists of this eyelet, which is distinct from the loamy, open plateaux around Upper Normandy and Picardie that are home to cereals and industrial production by virtue of its hilliness, its extensive wooded pasture landscape, its dense river network and the extent of its grassland.

Owing to differential erosion, Pays de Bray brings together the usual formations of the Upper Cretaceous made up of different types of chalk (glauconitic chalk, marly, silex chalk), of the Lower Cretaceous and of the Upper Jurassic. This erosion affects the softest upper layers (chalk and clay), revealing harder terrains (sand and sandstone). Therefore Pays de Bray features a number of formations: soils that are suitable for ploughing, such as those on the glauconitic chalk on the western edge of the area and on the limestone of the Upper Portlandian; heavy, impermeable soils unsuitable for ploughing but suitable or even excellent for grassland, such as Gault clay and the marly and clays of the Upper Portlandian. It is these clayey and humid soils that are the most typical of Pays de Bray, and they also gave rise to the term ‘Bray’, which meant ‘sludge’ in the Celtic language.

The region has a cool climate (average annual temperature 9,8 °C) characterised by high atmospheric humidity and much harsher winters (67 days of frost/year) than in the grasslands of Lower Normandy. Average annual rainfall is close to 800 mm and fairly evenly distributed throughout the year.

Human factors

The origins of ‘Neufchâtel’ cheese date back to the 10th century. According to Ghislain Gaudefroy, ‘Neufchâtel’ is one of the oldest Normandy cheeses and it is related to the cheeses that are produced in Pays de Bray and mentioned for the first time in a charter dating from 1037. ‘Neufchâtel’ cheese is referred to by name for the first time in the accounts of the abbey of Saint-Amand in Rouen in 1543-1544: ‘it is a large cheese from Neufchâtel.’

Since its development in the 18th century, breeding has been a part of the different types of farming practised in Pays de Bray. Pays de Bray has always been a region where cheese, butter and meat are produced. In order to meet the many objectives of meat and milk production, locals started increasing the number of wooded pastures well before the 19th century. At the same time, breeders in Pays de Bray wanted to produce a milk with a high fat and protein content and therefore they started using the Normande breed. This practice became established at the end of the 19th century and coincides with a strong growth in the production of ‘Neufchâtel’. The Normande breed combines remarkable beef production traits and a high-fat milk that, owing to its protein content, is exceptionally well suited to cheese-making.

In this context, local breeders have developed and maintained a simple cheese-making technology, similar to the methods used to make fresh cheese, that is adapted to the volumes of milk and the materials available on farms and to their speed of working. Thanks to the know-how of Pays de Bray cheese-makers, in particular the method of draining and pressing the curd before moulding, ‘Neufchâtel’ has a unique place among soft cheeses with a surface mould. This cheese, which traditionally comes in different shapes, is always made by farm producers, who produce nearly half of the tonnage in close proximity to pasta manufacturers and dairy producers.

The most important steps in the production of ‘Neufchâtel’ are: the conditions for renneting, the seeding of the milk from lactic cultures that have been cultivated or bought, a long milk curdling process, draining and pressing of the curd to form a paste, moulding of the paste, dry salting, seeding with surface flora and a short minimum ripening period (10 days) in identical temperature and humidity conditions. In addition, the farm producers want to continue to maintain specific traditional practices, such as very rapid pressing of the milk without pre-heating and slow draining/pressing in a bag or in a cloth.

5.2.   Specificity of the product

‘Neufchâtel’ is a cheese made exclusively from renneted cow’s milk; it has a soft, lactic, slightly salty paste without holes that is supple, does not collapse, is firm but not excessively so, velvety and smooth, non-sticky, non-runny and non-grainy. It has a surface mould that is white in colour and the rind has no holes. This cheese has a short ripening period but it can be consumed regionally after a ripening period of over three months.

‘Neufchâtel’ takes the form of a cylindrical log, square, briquette, double log, heart or big heart and contains a minimum of 45 grams of fat per 100 grams of cheese when completely dry.

5.3.   Causal link between the geographical area and the quality or characteristics of the product (for PDO) or a specific quality, the reputation or other characteristic of the product (for PGI)

The cheese's link to its geographical area is based on the capacity of the area to enable milk production in grasslands from herds composed mainly of cows of the Normande breed whose milk is processed using simple cheese-making technology that is very well adapted to farm production. The capacity of the grasslands results principally from the existence of humid clay soils that are regularly replenished by frequent rainfall. These soils, which are often found in hilly regions, contribute to the presence and growth of grass while at the same time making ploughing difficult. In addition, the tight network of streams and rivers and the numerous ponds have always provided watering places for grazing herds. As the winters are long and rigorous, the stabling period is rather long and local breeders must stock large amounts of hay and grass, rendered possible by the extensive grassland areas. Furthermore, the presence of soils developed on the Cenomanian and Lower Portlandian limestone shelves, together with the grasslands, enable ploughing that promotes the self-sufficiency of dairy farms in roughage other than grass. This contributed to the development of important dairy farming know-how.

The Normande breed is the result of the selective breeding performed by farmers in Normandy. The animal is adapted to the production system used in Pays de Bray (grass and pasture) and produces a milk that has a high fat and protein content and is exceptionally well suited to the production of soft cheese. In particular, this milk makes it possible to obtain a lactic curd that, after draining and pressing, is suited to making a paste that will be moulded later. The succession of short phases (excluding moulding) separated from each other by periods of 6 to 24 hours determines the specific characteristics of ‘Neufchâtel’. The development of this know-how marked by the rapidity of the ripening process owes a great deal to the geographical location of Pays de Bray, which has always fostered regular and rapid trade connections. This production method, typical of ‘Neufchâtel’, leaves enough time for other breeding work and is perfectly compatible with the production that is carried out in the numerous small farm workshops.

Reference to publication of the specification

(Article 5(7) of Regulation (EC) No 510/2006 (4))

https://www.inao.gouv.fr/fichier/CDCNeufchatel.pdf

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(1)  OJ L 343, 14.12.2012, p. 1.

(2)  OJ L 93, 31.3.2006, p. 12. Replaced by Regulation (EU) No 1151/2012.

(3)  Replaced by Regulation (EU) No 1151/2012.

(4)  See footnote 3.

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