# Official Journal C 80/2013

| | ISSN 1977-091X
  doi:10.3000/1977091X.C_2013.080.eng |
| --- | --- |
| Official Journal
  of the European Union | C 80 |
| | |
| English edition | Information and Notices | Volume 5619 March 2013 |

ISSN 1977-091X

doi:10.3000/1977091X.C_2013.080.eng

Official Journal

of the European Union

C 80

English edition

Information and Notices

Volume 5619 March 2013

---

| Notice No | Contents | page |
| --- | --- | --- |
| | I   Resolutions, recommendations and opinions |
| | RESOLUTIONS |
| | Council |
| 2013/C 080/01 | Council Resolution on the EU Customs Action Plan to combat IPR infringements for the years 2013 to 2017 | 1 |

Notice No

Contents

page

I   Resolutions, recommendations and opinions

RESOLUTIONS

Council

2013/C 080/01

Council Resolution on the EU Customs Action Plan to combat IPR infringements for the years 2013 to 2017

1

| | II   Information |
| --- | --- |
| | INFORMATION FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS, BODIES, OFFICES AND AGENCIES |
| | European Commission |
| 2013/C 080/02 | Authorisation for State aid pursuant to Articles 107 and 108 of the TFEU — Cases where the Commission raises no objections (
  1
  ) | 8 |
| 2013/C 080/03 | Non-opposition to a notified concentration (Case COMP/M.6864 — DSE/INCJ/Solar Ventures/JV) (
  2
  ) | 10 |
| 2013/C 080/04 | Non-opposition to a notified concentration (Case COMP/M.6809 — Daimler/Mercedes-Benz Österreich Vertriebsgesellschaft/Mercedes-Benz Financial Services Austria/Mercedes-Benz Hungaria) (
  2
  ) | 10 |

II   Information

INFORMATION FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS, BODIES, OFFICES AND AGENCIES

European Commission

2013/C 080/02

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

1

8

2013/C 080/03

Non-opposition to a notified concentration (Case COMP/M.6864 — DSE/INCJ/Solar Ventures/JV) (
  2
  )

2

10

2013/C 080/04

Non-opposition to a notified concentration (Case COMP/M.6809 — Daimler/Mercedes-Benz Österreich Vertriebsgesellschaft/Mercedes-Benz Financial Services Austria/Mercedes-Benz Hungaria) (
  2
  )

2

10

| | IV   Notices |
| --- | --- |
| | NOTICES FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS, BODIES, OFFICES AND AGENCIES |
| | Council |
| 2013/C 080/05 | Council conclusions on the progress on the Strategy for the Evolution of the Customs Union | 11 |
| | European Commission |
| 2013/C 080/06 | Euro exchange rates | 13 |
| 2013/C 080/07 | Notice pursuant to Article 19(2) of Council Regulation (EC) No 732/2008 of the termination of an investigation with respect to the effective implementation of the United Nations Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs in Bolivia | 14 |

IV   Notices

NOTICES FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS, BODIES, OFFICES AND AGENCIES

Council

2013/C 080/05

Council conclusions on the progress on the Strategy for the Evolution of the Customs Union

11

European Commission

2013/C 080/06

Euro exchange rates

13

2013/C 080/07

Notice pursuant to Article 19(2) of Council Regulation (EC) No 732/2008 of the termination of an investigation with respect to the effective implementation of the United Nations Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs in Bolivia

14

| | V   Announcements |
| --- | --- |
| | PROCEDURES RELATING TO THE IMPLEMENTATION OF COMPETITION POLICY |
| | European Commission |
| 2013/C 080/08 | Prior notification of a concentration (Case COMP/M.6879 — Mitsui Group/Gestamp Automoción/Target Companies) — Candidate case for simplified procedure (
  2
  ) | 15 |
| 2013/C 080/09 | Prior notification of a concentration (Case COMP/M.6843 — Siemens/Invensys Rail) (
  2
  ) | 16 |
| | OTHER ACTS |
| | European Commission |
| 2013/C 080/10 | Publication of an 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 | 17 |

V   Announcements

PROCEDURES RELATING TO THE IMPLEMENTATION OF COMPETITION POLICY

European Commission

2013/C 080/08

Prior notification of a concentration (Case COMP/M.6879 — Mitsui Group/Gestamp Automoción/Target Companies) — Candidate case for simplified procedure (
  2
  )

2

15

2013/C 080/09

Prior notification of a concentration (Case COMP/M.6843 — Siemens/Invensys Rail) (
  2
  )

2

16

OTHER ACTS

European Commission

2013/C 080/10

Publication of an 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

17

| | Corrigenda |
| --- | --- |
| 2013/C 080/11 | Corrigendum to the Authorisation for State aid pursuant to Articles 107 and 108 of the TFEU — Cases where the Commission raises no objections (OJ C 43, 15.2.2013) | 23 |

Corrigenda

2013/C 080/11

Corrigendum to the Authorisation for State aid pursuant to Articles 107 and 108 of the TFEU — Cases where the Commission raises no objections (OJ C 43, 15.2.2013)

23

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

---

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

1

(2)   Text with EEA relevance

2

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

EN

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I Resolutions, recommendations and opinions

RESOLUTIONS

Council

| 19.3.2013 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 80/1 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

19.3.2013

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 80/1

---

Council Resolution on the EU Customs Action Plan to combat IPR infringements for the years 2013 to 2017

2013/C 80/01

THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,

RECALLING:

| 1. | The EUROPE 2020 strategy on smart, sustainable and inclusive growth (1); |
| --- | --- |

1.

The EUROPE 2020 strategy on smart, sustainable and inclusive growth (1);

| 2. | The Commission Communication on a comprehensive EU strategy concerning intellectual property rights (2); |
| --- | --- |

2.

The Commission Communication on a comprehensive EU strategy concerning intellectual property rights (2);

| 3. | Council Regulation (EC) No 1383/2003 concerning customs action against goods suspected of infringing certain intellectual property rights and the measures to be taken against goods found to have infringed such rights (3); |
| --- | --- |

3.

Council Regulation (EC) No 1383/2003 concerning customs action against goods suspected of infringing certain intellectual property rights and the measures to be taken against goods found to have infringed such rights (3);

| 4. | Council Regulation (EC) No 515/97 of 13 March 1997 on mutual assistance between the administrative authorities of the Member States and cooperation between the latter and the Commission to ensure the correct application of the law on customs and agricultural matters (4); |
| --- | --- |

4.

Council Regulation (EC) No 515/97 of 13 March 1997 on mutual assistance between the administrative authorities of the Member States and cooperation between the latter and the Commission to ensure the correct application of the law on customs and agricultural matters (4);

| 5. | Provisions in agreements on mutual administrative assistance in customs matters concluded between the EU and third countries; |
| --- | --- |

5.

Provisions in agreements on mutual administrative assistance in customs matters concluded between the EU and third countries;

| 6. | Council Resolution of 16 March 2009 on the EU Customs Action Plan to combat IPR infringements for the years 2009 to 2012 (5); |
| --- | --- |

6.

Council Resolution of 16 March 2009 on the EU Customs Action Plan to combat IPR infringements for the years 2009 to 2012 (5);

CONSIDERING:

| 7. | The Council conclusions on the Progress on the Strategy for the evolution of the Customs Union (6); |
| --- | --- |

7.

The Council conclusions on the Progress on the Strategy for the evolution of the Customs Union (6);

| 8. | The report on the implementation of the EU Customs Action Plan to combat intellectual Property Right infringements for the years 2009-2012 (7); |
| --- | --- |

8.

The report on the implementation of the EU Customs Action Plan to combat intellectual Property Right infringements for the years 2009-2012 (7);

| 9. | The experience gained from the previous EU Action plans; |
| --- | --- |

9.

The experience gained from the previous EU Action plans;

| 10. | AWARE of the economic and reputational damage of IPR infringements to EU businesses and creators, and the profits generated by such illicit activities for organised crime; |
| --- | --- |

10.

AWARE of the economic and reputational damage of IPR infringements to EU businesses and creators, and the profits generated by such illicit activities for organised crime;

| 11. | CONCERNED BY the risks counterfeit goods may create for the health and safety of consumers and end-users and to the environment, in addition to the economic and social consequences; |
| --- | --- |

11.

CONCERNED BY the risks counterfeit goods may create for the health and safety of consumers and end-users and to the environment, in addition to the economic and social consequences;

| 12. | STRESSES the objective to strive for a high level of protection of the EU internal market by means of modern and harmonised approaches to customs controls and of customs cooperation, in particular to avoid trade diversion within the EU; |
| --- | --- |

12.

STRESSES the objective to strive for a high level of protection of the EU internal market by means of modern and harmonised approaches to customs controls and of customs cooperation, in particular to avoid trade diversion within the EU;

| 13. | RECOGNISES the need to provide customs authorities with the necessary tools to successfully address new trends in the international trade of goods infringing intellectual property rights; |
| --- | --- |

13.

RECOGNISES the need to provide customs authorities with the necessary tools to successfully address new trends in the international trade of goods infringing intellectual property rights;

| 14. | ENDORSES the EU Customs Action Plan to combat IPR infringements for the years 2013 to 2017 set out in the Annex, prepared by the Presidency in co-operation with the Member States and the Commission; |
| --- | --- |

14.

ENDORSES the EU Customs Action Plan to combat IPR infringements for the years 2013 to 2017 set out in the Annex, prepared by the Presidency in co-operation with the Member States and the Commission;

INVITES:

| 15. | The Member States and the Commission to implement the Action Plan set out in the Annex effectively and efficiently making full use of the tools and the resources available; |
| --- | --- |

15.

The Member States and the Commission to implement the Action Plan set out in the Annex effectively and efficiently making full use of the tools and the resources available;

| 16. | The Commission, in co-operation with Member States:






  — | to prepare a comprehensive roadmap by spring 2013 to facilitate the implementation of the Action Plan, |
| --- | --- | --- |

16.

The Commission, in co-operation with Member States:

—

to prepare a comprehensive roadmap by spring 2013 to facilitate the implementation of the Action Plan,

| — | to monitor the implementation of the Action Plan, |
| --- | --- |

—

to monitor the implementation of the Action Plan,

| — | to submit to the Council annual summary reports on the implementation of the Action Plan, |
| --- | --- |

—

to submit to the Council annual summary reports on the implementation of the Action Plan,

| — | to submit to the Council a final report on the implementation of the Action Plan in 2017. |
| --- | --- |

—

to submit to the Council a final report on the implementation of the Action Plan in 2017.

EU Customs Action Plan to combat IPR infringements for the years 2013-2017

INTRODUCTION

The massive violations of intellectual property rights in the trade of goods are a serious global problem. In 2011, the customs enforcement of IPR in the EU resulted in almost 115 million articles detained.

The competitiveness of economies is increasingly based on creativity and innovation. The Europe 2020 Strategy for smart, sustainable and inclusive growth outlines the way forward towards Europe's economic recovery and growth. Promoting knowledge and innovation is one of the three priorities of that Strategy.

It is essential to improve framework conditions for business to innovate and to reduce the damage to its legitimate interests caused by counterfeiters taking advantage of the investments, efforts and brand reputation of right-holders. The fight against international organisations engaged in fraud and organised crime, often searching for easy gains and economic benefits from the trade in counterfeit and pirated goods, also requires specific attention, as well as the risks that counterfeit goods may cause to consumers and end-users.

A comprehensive IPR legal framework must be combined with effective enforcement. Business and consumers rely heavily on the responsiveness of enforcement authorities. Customs play a key role in enforcement: once IPR infringing goods have entered the Single market, they are much more difficult to interrupt. Coordinating and planning European customs activities to combat IPR infringements related to cross-border trade is paramount.

EVALUATION OF THE EU ACTION PLAN 2009-2012

The outcomes of the implementation of the Action Plan 2009-2012 are reflected in the dedicated report that the Commission services prepared in co-operation with Member States.

During the last four years, focus has been put on improving existing EU legislation on the customs enforcement of IPR, strengthening operational co-operation between customs and with industry, and further developing international co-operation on IPR enforcement. Publicity and awareness-raising, responding to the problem of Internet sales and the delivery of ad hoc training to customs officers were also part of the Action Plan.

Customs administrations and the Commission have given a firm response to the key challenges associated with the enforcement of intellectual property rights by customs. Statistics gathered show impressive results with almost 115 million detained articles and the acceptance of more than 20 000 applications for actions lodged by right-holders in 2011. The estimated value of the equivalent genuine products approached EUR 1,3 billion. Internet sales have boosted the number of cases in postal traffic, which tripled between 2009 and 2011.

The evaluation of the Action Plan shows the need for maintaining an EU-wide approach towards the customs enforcement of IPR. This was also echoed in the 79th meeting of Directors-General for Customs of the EU Member States, Croatia and Turkey. The meeting called for the establishment of a new EU Customs Action Plan to combat IPR with clear objectives, appropriate resources and indicators of results and performance.

WAY FORWARD

The new Action Plan is designed to bring added value and enhanced outcomes in a climate of financial austerity. It contains some core elements of previous Action Plans that remain valid and must be further deepened and implemented. The experience gained from the implementation of the 2009-2012 Action Plan also highlights the need for some adjustment to our action, taking account of the resource constraints in administrations. The efforts to be engaged should be clearly defined and linked to indicators allowing measurement of results. A partnership should also be developed with the European Observatory on infringements of IPRs and co-operation enhanced with the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) and European enforcement bodies other than customs, in the framework of their respective competences, where appropriate. The future Customs 2020 Programme shall continue like previous programmes to support the implementation of the present Action Plan.

The strategic objectives of this Action Plan are therefore the following:

| — | Effectively implementing and monitoring the new EU legislation on customs enforcement of IPR. |
| --- | --- |

—

Effectively implementing and monitoring the new EU legislation on customs enforcement of IPR.

| — | Tackling major trends in trade of IPR infringing goods. |
| --- | --- |

—

Tackling major trends in trade of IPR infringing goods.

| — | Tackling trade of IPR infringing goods throughout the international supply chain. |
| --- | --- |

—

Tackling trade of IPR infringing goods throughout the international supply chain.

| — | Strengthening cooperation with the European Observatory on infringements of IPRs and law enforcement authorities. |
| --- | --- |

—

Strengthening cooperation with the European Observatory on infringements of IPRs and law enforcement authorities.

The Action Plan will run for the years 2013-2017.

ROADMAP

A detailed roadmap will be prepared by the Commission in co-operation with Member States experts to define the actions and tools to be deployed within an agreed timeframe, taking into account the financial and human resource implications. The agreed roadmap will be made available to the Council in Spring 2013.

REVIEW MECHANISM

The Commission in co-operation with the Member States experts, will present yearly summary reports to the Council describing the state of implementation of the Action Plan, on the basis of the roadmap. A more detailed report will be prepared in the final year.

CONCLUSIONS

The EU Customs Action Plan to combat IPR infringements for the years 2013-2017 is attached. As a first step, the Commission will prepare the above-mentioned roadmap.

1.   EFFECTIVELY IMPLEMENTING AND MONITORING THE NEW EU LEGISLATION ON CUSTOMS ENFORCEMENT OF IPR

Specific objective 1.1:   Developing tools for implementing the new EU Regulation

| Actions | Indicators | Responsible actors |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 1.1.1. | Production of a manual for right-holders filing applications for action |

Actions

Indicators

Responsible actors

1.1.1.

Production of a manual for right-holders filing applications for action

Manual published on websites

Commission & MSs

| 1.1.2. | Support visit to all MSs by a team composed of IPR experts and the Commission |
| --- | --- |

1.1.2.

Support visit to all MSs by a team composed of IPR experts and the Commission

Visits performed and advice provided where appropriate

Detected problems are followed-up and capacity building plans established where necessary

Commission & MSs

| 1.1.3. | Preparation of specific Guidelines for customs in all EU official languages on new procedures (including small consignments) where appropriate. |
| --- | --- |

1.1.3.

Preparation of specific Guidelines for customs in all EU official languages on new procedures (including small consignments) where appropriate.

Guidelines available

Commission & MSs

| 1.1.4. | Development of a proposal for a training plan to facilitate the implementation of the Regulation, possibly including an E-learning tool for Customs and right-holders |
| --- | --- |

1.1.4.

Development of a proposal for a training plan to facilitate the implementation of the Regulation, possibly including an E-learning tool for Customs and right-holders

Training plan established by a working group and trainings performed

Commission & MSs in cooperation with the European Observatory on infringements of Intellectual Property Rights

Specific objective 1.2:   Exploiting the full functionality of COPIS

| Actions | Indicators | Responsible actors |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 1.2.1. | Implementation of the functionalities of COPIS |

Actions

Indicators

Responsible actors

1.2.1.

Implementation of the functionalities of COPIS

Full exploitation of search and reporting functionalities of COPIS

Commission & MSs

Specific objective 1.3:   Engaging right-holders & stakeholders

| Actions | Indicators | Responsible actors |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 1.3.1. | Provision of information on the new EU Regulation to right-holders and stakeholders |

Actions

Indicators

Responsible actors

1.3.1.

Provision of information on the new EU Regulation to right-holders and stakeholders

Websites of customs administrations updated when the Regulation enters into application

Commission & MSs

Information on new legal framework in SME Helpdesks

Commission

Special parts of TransAtlantic Portal on Customs enforcement up to date

Commission

Information on new legal framework in Member States SME support organisations and relevant industrial and intellectual property departments and offices

Commission and Member States

| 1.3.2. | Regular meetings at EU level between customs, representatives of right-holder and other parties involved in IPR enforcement |
| --- | --- |

1.3.2.

Regular meetings at EU level between customs, representatives of right-holder and other parties involved in IPR enforcement

1st meeting at the latest one year after the new Regulation is applicable

Commission, MSs & right-holders/other involved parties

Specific objective 1.4:   Annual publication of statistics

| Actions | Indicators | Responsible actors |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 1.4.1. | Publication of a yearly EU report of statistics on customs enforcement of IPR |

Actions

Indicators

Responsible actors

1.4.1.

Publication of a yearly EU report of statistics on customs enforcement of IPR

Yearly reports available in May

Commission & MSs

2.   TACKLING MAJOR TRENDS IN TRADE OF IPR INFRINGING GOODS

Specific objective 2.1:   Developing tailor-made approaches for parcel and postal traffic

| Actions | Indicators | Responsible actors |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 2.1.1. | Exchange of best practices on the customs follow-up of internet trade, complementing the activities of the Customs Cooperation Working Party (EU Council) pertaining to the area of customs related Internet Crime |

Actions

Indicators

Responsible actors

2.1.1.

Exchange of best practices on the customs follow-up of internet trade, complementing the activities of the Customs Cooperation Working Party (EU Council) pertaining to the area of customs related Internet Crime

Best practices available to customs administrations via the e-counterfeiting group under the Customs 2013 Programme

Commission & MSs

Specific objective 2.2:   Strengthening Customs Risk Management

| Actions | Indicators | Responsible actors |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 2.2.1. | Development of a common risk management based control strategy including risk information needs, common risk criteria and standards and implementation of EU priority control actions (PCAs) as appropriate, targeted at detection of IPR infringements for small and large consignments |

Actions

Indicators

Responsible actors

2.2.1.

Development of a common risk management based control strategy including risk information needs, common risk criteria and standards and implementation of EU priority control actions (PCAs) as appropriate, targeted at detection of IPR infringements for small and large consignments

Criteria and standards established

Commission with the support of the MSs

| 2.2.2. | Regular provision of appropriate IPR risk and customs control information via the Customs Risk Management System (CRMS) and control contact points |
| --- | --- |

2.2.2.

Regular provision of appropriate IPR risk and customs control information via the Customs Risk Management System (CRMS) and control contact points

CRMS used to exchange risk information on IPR infringements

Regular feedback from MSs on risk and customs control information provided and control results

Commission & MSs

| 2.2.3. | Elaboration of a coordinated work plan for Joint Customs Operations (JCOs) on IPR, including coordination with international organisations |
| --- | --- |

2.2.3.

Elaboration of a coordinated work plan for Joint Customs Operations (JCOs) on IPR, including coordination with international organisations

Multi-annual work plan of JCOs on IPR coordinated with the different customs authorities, the EU Council and international organisations

Use of information gathered during JCOs for risk analysis and investigation purposes

Commission & MSs

3.   TACKLING TRADE OF IPR INFRINGING GOODS THROUGHOUT THE INTERNATIONAL SUPPLY CHAIN

Specific objective 3.1:   Strengthening cooperation with key source, transit and destination countries

| Actions | Indicators | Responsible actors |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 3.1.1. | Reinforcement of customs cooperation on IPR with third countries, in particular China and Hong Kong |

Actions

Indicators

Responsible actors

3.1.1.

Reinforcement of customs cooperation on IPR with third countries, in particular China and Hong Kong

New expanded EU-China Action Plan implemented after 2012

Cooperation activities with Hong Kong agreed and implemented

Commission & MSs

| 3.1.2. | Development of exchange of information with third countries in compliance with the legal provisions, including on goods in transit/transhipment across the EU |
| --- | --- |

3.1.2.

Development of exchange of information with third countries in compliance with the legal provisions, including on goods in transit/transhipment across the EU

Mechanisms for the exchange of information are established

Number of information exchanges and number of detention cases on the basis of that information

Commission & MSs

| 3.1.3. | Enhancement of the exchange of information between the EU Member States and Commission services on the one hand and third countries authorities on the other hand, including Balkan and Eastern Partnership countries, with a view to eliminating international trade in goods infringing intellectual property rights. |
| --- | --- |

3.1.3.

Enhancement of the exchange of information between the EU Member States and Commission services on the one hand and third countries authorities on the other hand, including Balkan and Eastern Partnership countries, with a view to eliminating international trade in goods infringing intellectual property rights.

Number of cases opened on the basis of the information exchanged

Recommendations

Commission & MSs

| 3.1.4. | Organisation of EU Customs presence in international events to spread knowledge |
| --- | --- |

3.1.4.

Organisation of EU Customs presence in international events to spread knowledge

EU Customs authorities represented in relevant international IPR enforcement events

Feedback on these events provided to all MSs and Commission by EU participants

Commission & MSs

Specific objective 3.2:   Building capacity in candidate and neighbouring countries on IPR enforcement

| Actions | Indicators | Responsible actors |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 3.2.1. | Provision of technical assistance for capacity building to candidate and neighbouring countries upon request |

Actions

Indicators

Responsible actors

3.2.1.

Provision of technical assistance for capacity building to candidate and neighbouring countries upon request

Pool of experts available

Multi-annual planning of activities

Commission & MSs

| 3.2.2. | Exchanges of experiences and possible study visits on operational structure, IT and operational solutions applied by Customs in IPR enforcement |
| --- | --- |

3.2.2.

Exchanges of experiences and possible study visits on operational structure, IT and operational solutions applied by Customs in IPR enforcement

Report on best practices in IPR enforcement in the EU and the neighbouring countries

Commission & MSs

| 3.2.3. | Exchange of officials |
| --- | --- |

3.2.3.

Exchange of officials

Number of exchanges performed

Reporting to the other MSs and the Commission on the experience gained in the exchanges

MSs

4.   STRENGTHENING COOPERATION WITH THE EUROPEAN OBSERVATORY ON INFRINGEMENTS OF IPRs, AND LAW ENFORCEMENT AUTHORITIES

Specific objective 4.1:   Establishing a partnership with the European Observatory on infringements of IPRs

| Actions | Indicators | Responsible actors |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 4.1.1. | Contribution to the development and implementation as appropriate, of projects by the European Observatory on infringements of Intellectual Property Rights to support institutions and initiatives on IPR enforcement, within the limits of the powers conferred to it by Regulation (EU) No 386/2012, and according to the work plan of the European Observatory, in particular to:






  — | develop systems to gather, analyse and report on the scope and scale of counterfeiting and piracy in the EU and exchange key information, |

Actions

Indicators

Responsible actors

4.1.1.

Contribution to the development and implementation as appropriate, of projects by the European Observatory on infringements of Intellectual Property Rights to support institutions and initiatives on IPR enforcement, within the limits of the powers conferred to it by Regulation (EU) No 386/2012, and according to the work plan of the European Observatory, in particular to:

—

develop systems to gather, analyse and report on the scope and scale of counterfeiting and piracy in the EU and exchange key information,

| — | building competencies in IP enforcement by delivering specialised training, |
| --- | --- |

—

building competencies in IP enforcement by delivering specialised training,

| — | How best to safeguard your IP rights. |
| --- | --- |

—

How best to safeguard your IP rights.

Projects correspond to customs needs

Compatibility and synergies with customs projects

Availability of tools for spreading knowledge about IPR laws, [...]

Public awareness activities including those targeted at consumers

European Observatory on infringements of Intellectual Property Rights in co-operation with Commission & MSs

Specific objective 4.2:   Improving mutual understanding and cooperation between Customs, police and judicial authorities

| Actions | Indicators | Responsible actors |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 4.2.1. | Joint events between representatives of customs administrations, police, judicial authorities and industrial and intellectual property departments and offices |

Actions

Indicators

Responsible actors

4.2.1.

Joint events between representatives of customs administrations, police, judicial authorities and industrial and intellectual property departments and offices

Conference organised by the Commission and the Observatory in 2014

Commission, European Observatory on infringements of Intellectual Property Rights & MSs

---

(1)  Communication from the Commission of 3 March 2010 — Europe 2020 A strategy for smart, sustainable and inclusive growth — COM(2010) 2020 final — not published in the Official Journal.

(2)  Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions — A Single Market for Intellectual Property Rights — Boosting creativity and innovation to provide economic growth, high quality jobs and first class products and services in Europe — COM(2011) 287.

(3)  OJ L 196, 2.8.2003, p. 7. A Commission proposal meant to review this regulation is currently under examination by the European Parliament and the Council — doc. 10880/11.

(4)  OJ L 82, 22.3.1997, p. 1.

(5)  OJ C 71, 25.3.2009, p. 1.

(6)  Not yet published in the Official Journal.

(7)  doc. 15699/12.

---

II Information

INFORMATION FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS, BODIES, OFFICES AND AGENCIES

European Commission

| 19.3.2013 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 80/8 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

19.3.2013

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 80/8

---

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 80/02

| Date of adoption of the decision | 11.2.2013 |
| --- | --- |
| Reference number of State Aid | SA.33890 (11/N) |
| Member State | Greece |
| Region | — | — |
| Title (and/or name of the beneficiary) | Ανάθεση στον ΕΛ.Γ.Α. της υλοποίησης του προγράμματος κρατικών οικονομικών ενισχύσεων: Μέτρα υπέρ των παραγωγών της χώρας που οι γεωργικές τους εκμεταλλεύσεις ζημιώθηκαν από θεομηνίες (πλημμύρες, κατολισθήσεις) και δυσμενείς καιρικές συνθήκες (ανεμοθύελλες, υπερβολικές βροχοπτώσεις, παγετό) ως αποτέλεσμα δυσμενών καιρικών συνθηκών, κατά τη χρονική περίοδο Ιανουάριος-Δεκέμβριος 2010 |
| Legal basis | Kοινή υπουργική απόφαση (συνημμένη) |
| Type of measure | Scheme | — |
| Objective | Compensation of damages caused by natural disaster, Adverse weather conditions |
| Form of aid | Direct grant |
| Budget | | Overall budget: EUR 12 million |

Date of adoption of the decision

11.2.2013

Reference number of State Aid

SA.33890 (11/N)

Member State

Greece

Region

—

—

Title (and/or name of the beneficiary)

Ανάθεση στον ΕΛ.Γ.Α. της υλοποίησης του προγράμματος κρατικών οικονομικών ενισχύσεων: Μέτρα υπέρ των παραγωγών της χώρας που οι γεωργικές τους εκμεταλλεύσεις ζημιώθηκαν από θεομηνίες (πλημμύρες, κατολισθήσεις) και δυσμενείς καιρικές συνθήκες (ανεμοθύελλες, υπερβολικές βροχοπτώσεις, παγετό) ως αποτέλεσμα δυσμενών καιρικών συνθηκών, κατά τη χρονική περίοδο Ιανουάριος-Δεκέμβριος 2010

Legal basis

Kοινή υπουργική απόφαση (συνημμένη)

Type of measure

Scheme

—

Objective

Compensation of damages caused by natural disaster, Adverse weather conditions

Form of aid

Direct grant

Budget

Overall budget: EUR 12 million

| | Annual budget: EUR 4 million |
| --- | --- |

Annual budget: EUR 4 million

Intensity

80 %

Duration (period)

Until 31.12.2014

Economic sectors

Agriculture, forestry and fishing

Name and address of the granting authority

| Υπουργείο ΑΑΤ |
| --- |
| Αχαρνών 2 |
| 101 76 Αθήναι/Athens |
| ΕΛΛΑΔΑ/GREECE |

Υπουργείο ΑΑΤ

Αχαρνών 2

101 76 Αθήναι/Athens

ΕΛΛΑΔΑ/GREECE

| ΕΛ.Γ.Α |
| --- |
| Mεσογείων 45 |
| 115 10 Αθήναι/Athens |
| ΕΛΛΑΔΑ/GREECE |

ΕΛ.Γ.Α

Mεσογείων 45

115 10 Αθήναι/Athens

ΕΛΛΑΔΑ/GREECE

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

---

| 19.3.2013 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 80/10 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

19.3.2013

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 80/10

---

Non-opposition to a notified concentration

(Case COMP/M.6864 — DSE/INCJ/Solar Ventures/JV)

(Text with EEA relevance)

2013/C 80/03

On 11 March 2013, the Commission decided not to oppose the above notified concentration and to declare it compatible with the common market. This decision is based on Article 6(1)(b) of Council Regulation (EC) No 139/2004. The full text of the decision is available only in English and will be made public after it is cleared of any business secrets it may contain. It will be available:

| — | in the merger section of the Competition website of the Commission (http://ec.europa.eu/competition/mergers/cases/). This website provides various facilities to help locate individual merger decisions, including company, case number, date and sectoral indexes, |
| --- | --- |

—

in the merger section of the Competition website of the Commission (http://ec.europa.eu/competition/mergers/cases/). This website provides various facilities to help locate individual merger decisions, including company, case number, date and sectoral indexes,

| — | in electronic form on the EUR-Lex website (http://eur-lex.europa.eu/en/index.htm) under document number 32013M6864. EUR-Lex is the on-line access to the European law. |
| --- | --- |

—

in electronic form on the EUR-Lex website (http://eur-lex.europa.eu/en/index.htm) under document number 32013M6864. EUR-Lex is the on-line access to the European law.

---

| 19.3.2013 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 80/10 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

19.3.2013

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 80/10

---

Non-opposition to a notified concentration

(Case COMP/M.6809 — Daimler/Mercedes-Benz Österreich Vertriebsgesellschaft/Mercedes-Benz Financial Services Austria/Mercedes-Benz Hungaria)

(Text with EEA relevance)

2013/C 80/04

On 12 March 2013, the Commission decided not to oppose the above notified concentration and to declare it compatible with the common market. This decision is based on Article 6(1)(b) of Council Regulation (EC) No 139/2004. The full text of the decision is available only in German and will be made public after it is cleared of any business secrets it may contain. It will be available:

| — | in the merger section of the Competition website of the Commission (http://ec.europa.eu/competition/mergers/cases/). This website provides various facilities to help locate individual merger decisions, including company, case number, date and sectoral indexes, |
| --- | --- |

—

in the merger section of the Competition website of the Commission (http://ec.europa.eu/competition/mergers/cases/). This website provides various facilities to help locate individual merger decisions, including company, case number, date and sectoral indexes,

| — | in electronic form on the EUR-Lex website (http://eur-lex.europa.eu/en/index.htm) under document number 32013M6809. EUR-Lex is the on-line access to the European law. |
| --- | --- |

—

in electronic form on the EUR-Lex website (http://eur-lex.europa.eu/en/index.htm) under document number 32013M6809. EUR-Lex is the on-line access to the European law.

---

IV Notices

NOTICES FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS, BODIES, OFFICES AND AGENCIES

Council

| 19.3.2013 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 80/11 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

19.3.2013

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 80/11

---

Council conclusions on the progress on the Strategy for the Evolution of the Customs Union

2013/C 80/05

THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,

RECALLING:

| — | the crucial role played by the customs union since 1968 as a foundation of the European Union, |
| --- | --- |

—

the crucial role played by the customs union since 1968 as a foundation of the European Union,

| — | the objectives set by the ‘Europe 2020’ strategy, as adopted by the European Council on 17 June 2010, |
| --- | --- |

—

the objectives set by the ‘Europe 2020’ strategy, as adopted by the European Council on 17 June 2010,

| — | the objectives set by the Strategy for Internal Security, as adopted by the European Council on 25 and 26 March 2010, |
| --- | --- |

—

the objectives set by the Strategy for Internal Security, as adopted by the European Council on 25 and 26 March 2010,

| — | the contribution of customs to achieving the above EU objectives, and the strategy set for the customs union in 2008 in the Communication from the Commission on a Strategy for the Evolution of the Customs Union (1), |
| --- | --- |

—

the contribution of customs to achieving the above EU objectives, and the strategy set for the customs union in 2008 in the Communication from the Commission on a Strategy for the Evolution of the Customs Union (1),

| — | the ongoing efforts to modernise the customs union, notably through adoption of the Modernised Customs Code (2) and implementation of the e-Customs Decision (3), with a view to meeting the above objectives, |
| --- | --- |

—

the ongoing efforts to modernise the customs union, notably through adoption of the Modernised Customs Code (2) and implementation of the e-Customs Decision (3), with a view to meeting the above objectives,

| — | the Council Resolution of 13 December 2011 on the future of customs law enforcement cooperation (4), |
| --- | --- |

—

the Council Resolution of 13 December 2011 on the future of customs law enforcement cooperation (4),

| — | the coming into force of the Lisbon Treaty on 1 December 2009, |
| --- | --- |

—

the coming into force of the Lisbon Treaty on 1 December 2009,

| — | the Council conclusions on the customs cooperation with Eastern neighbouring countries (5) and other initiatives on international customs cooperation, |
| --- | --- |

—

the Council conclusions on the customs cooperation with Eastern neighbouring countries (5) and other initiatives on international customs cooperation,

| — | that the Council, in its meeting of 14 May 2008, endorsed Communication 169(2008), the strategic objectives set therein for the customs union, and asked the Commission to report on progress in implementing the Strategy by 2011 (6), |
| --- | --- |

—

that the Council, in its meeting of 14 May 2008, endorsed Communication 169(2008), the strategic objectives set therein for the customs union, and asked the Commission to report on progress in implementing the Strategy by 2011 (6),

NOTES:

| — | the evolution of the customs union in terms of volumes of activity, in implementation of information technology and in policy and legislation, |
| --- | --- |

—

the evolution of the customs union in terms of volumes of activity, in implementation of information technology and in policy and legislation,

| — | the increased role of customs in contributing to safety and security, |
| --- | --- |

—

the increased role of customs in contributing to safety and security,

| — | the progress that has been achieved on priority files such as the fight against counterfeiting and piracy as well as the fight against fraud and on projects aimed at combining international trade facilitation with protection of the EU territory and inhabitants, |
| --- | --- |

—

the progress that has been achieved on priority files such as the fight against counterfeiting and piracy as well as the fight against fraud and on projects aimed at combining international trade facilitation with protection of the EU territory and inhabitants,

| — | the challenges that the customs administrations encountered since 2008 in the process of modernisation and IT implementation, |
| --- | --- |

—

the challenges that the customs administrations encountered since 2008 in the process of modernisation and IT implementation,

WELCOMES:

| — | the Commission report on progress on the Strategy for the Evolution of the Customs Union (7), |
| --- | --- |

—

the Commission report on progress on the Strategy for the Evolution of the Customs Union (7),

| — | the Commission proposal for a union customs code (8), the Commission proposal for a new regulation concerning customs enforcement of intellectual property rights (9) and the Commission proposal for the ‘Customs 2020’ programme (10), |
| --- | --- |

—

the Commission proposal for a union customs code (8), the Commission proposal for a new regulation concerning customs enforcement of intellectual property rights (9) and the Commission proposal for the ‘Customs 2020’ programme (10),

CONSIDERS the strategic objectives as set out in 2008 as still valid and appropriate,

ENDORSES the ongoing evolution of the role of customs, with regard to the international trade, financial and fiscal interests of the European Union, as well as responsibilities covering security and safety at the external borders, and the protection of the EU inhabitants, including health and the environment, in a changing external context,

STRESSES that the customs union should continue to evolve thus being able to continue to meet its objectives in supporting the EU’s competitiveness by protecting the business environment, facilitating trade and offering high quality service to stakeholders,

to this end, UNDERLINES THE NEED:

| — | to ensure that developments and changes to customs services and requirements to the greatest extent feasible positively contribute to protecting the EU, facilitating legitimate trade, supporting the competitiveness of EU businesses and helping to stimulate economic benefits in line with the objectives of the EU growth agenda, |
| --- | --- |

—

to ensure that developments and changes to customs services and requirements to the greatest extent feasible positively contribute to protecting the EU, facilitating legitimate trade, supporting the competitiveness of EU businesses and helping to stimulate economic benefits in line with the objectives of the EU growth agenda,

| — | to streamline and improve the internal governance and performance of the customs union, with a view to ensuring that the customs union achieves its objectives in the most effective and efficient possible way, |
| --- | --- |

—

to streamline and improve the internal governance and performance of the customs union, with a view to ensuring that the customs union achieves its objectives in the most effective and efficient possible way,

| — | to enhance the customs union’s ability to measure its impact, including enhancing the use of measurement of outcome, and improve its performance with regard to serving its main stakeholders, Member States, businesses and society, |
| --- | --- |

—

to enhance the customs union’s ability to measure its impact, including enhancing the use of measurement of outcome, and improve its performance with regard to serving its main stakeholders, Member States, businesses and society,

| — | to further promote uniform application of customs legislation and modern and harmonised approaches to customs controls while allowing, where appropriate and bearing in mind the implications for the operators and for Member States, flexibility for national solutions, |
| --- | --- |

—

to further promote uniform application of customs legislation and modern and harmonised approaches to customs controls while allowing, where appropriate and bearing in mind the implications for the operators and for Member States, flexibility for national solutions,

| — | to enhance cooperation with other agencies both at the national and EU level in the areas of security, health, safety and the environment, as well as with international partners whilst respecting the division of competence between the EU and Member States in this area, |
| --- | --- |

—

to enhance cooperation with other agencies both at the national and EU level in the areas of security, health, safety and the environment, as well as with international partners whilst respecting the division of competence between the EU and Member States in this area,

| — | to adopt a more comprehensive approach of the international supply chain with the aim of improving the effectiveness of controls, allowing more trade facilitation and bringing real and tangible benefits to authorised economic operators, |
| --- | --- |

—

to adopt a more comprehensive approach of the international supply chain with the aim of improving the effectiveness of controls, allowing more trade facilitation and bringing real and tangible benefits to authorised economic operators,

| — | to step up actions to fight against smuggling of goods, in particular cigarettes and alcohol, along the external EU borders and to strengthening the cooperation with the EU neighbouring countries in this regard, |
| --- | --- |

—

to step up actions to fight against smuggling of goods, in particular cigarettes and alcohol, along the external EU borders and to strengthening the cooperation with the EU neighbouring countries in this regard,

| — | to further enhance dialogue and cooperation with economic operators in order to better respond to their expectations and constraints, |
| --- | --- |

—

to further enhance dialogue and cooperation with economic operators in order to better respond to their expectations and constraints,

| — | to make the best possible use of available resources at EU level, notably in the area of IT development and human capacity building, taking into account economic and other constraints, |
| --- | --- |

—

to make the best possible use of available resources at EU level, notably in the area of IT development and human capacity building, taking into account economic and other constraints,

| — | to foster continuous innovation within the context of the existing and evolving legal framework to enhance the performance and agility of the customs union, |
| --- | --- |

—

to foster continuous innovation within the context of the existing and evolving legal framework to enhance the performance and agility of the customs union,

| — | to modernise customs working methods and detection technology and to develop staff competences to meet this need, taking into account specific needs and circumstances, |
| --- | --- |

—

to modernise customs working methods and detection technology and to develop staff competences to meet this need, taking into account specific needs and circumstances,

| — | to support customs both at the national and EU level in its role as the lead authority in managing the cross-border movement of goods, |
| --- | --- |

—

to support customs both at the national and EU level in its role as the lead authority in managing the cross-border movement of goods,

INVITES the Commission:

| — | to take account of these points made by the Council and to reflect them in the work, |
| --- | --- |

—

to take account of these points made by the Council and to reflect them in the work,

| — | to take measures, together with the Member State administrations, on implementing the strategy, and |
| --- | --- |

—

to take measures, together with the Member State administrations, on implementing the strategy, and

| — | to report on progress to the Council by 2014. |
| --- | --- |

—

to report on progress to the Council by 2014.

---

(1)  Doc. 8027/08 UD 51.

(2)  OJ L 145, 4.6.2008, p. 1.

(3)  OJ L 23, 26.1.2008, p. 21.

(4)  OJ C 5, 7.1.2012, p. 1.

(5)  Doc. 16881/11 UD 323.

(6)  Doc. 8608/08 UD 65.

(7)  Doc. 18932/11 UD 370.

(8)  Doc. 6784/12 UD 49 ENFOCUSTOM 10 MI 120 COMER 36 TRANS 53 CODEC 450.

(9)  Doc. 10880/11 UD 134 PI 64 COMER 110.

(10)  Doc. 13265/12 UD 221 AELE 61.

---

European Commission

| 19.3.2013 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 80/13 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

19.3.2013

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 80/13

---

Euro exchange rates (1)

18 March 2013

2013/C 80/06

1 euro =

| | Currency | Exchange rate |
| --- | --- | --- |
| USD | US dollar | 1,2929 |
| JPY | Japanese yen | 122,88 |
| DKK | Danish krone | 7,4547 |
| GBP | Pound sterling | 0,85620 |
| SEK | Swedish krona | 8,3370 |
| CHF | Swiss franc | 1,2221 |
| ISK | Iceland króna | |
| NOK | Norwegian krone | 7,5015 |
| BGN | Bulgarian lev | 1,9558 |
| CZK | Czech koruna | 25,620 |
| HUF | Hungarian forint | 307,17 |
| LTL | Lithuanian litas | 3,4528 |
| LVL | Latvian lats | 0,7012 |
| PLN | Polish zloty | 4,1565 |
| RON | Romanian leu | 4,4153 |
| TRY | Turkish lira | 2,3466 |
| AUD | Australian dollar | 1,2446 |
| CAD | Canadian dollar | 1,3211 |
| HKD | Hong Kong dollar | 10,0351 |
| NZD | New Zealand dollar | 1,5686 |
| SGD | Singapore dollar | 1,6157 |
| KRW | South Korean won | 1 439,04 |
| ZAR | South African rand | 11,8662 |
| CNY | Chinese yuan renminbi | 8,0399 |
| HRK | Croatian kuna | 7,5875 |
| IDR | Indonesian rupiah | 12 557,23 |
| MYR | Malaysian ringgit | 4,0487 |
| PHP | Philippine peso | 52,595 |
| RUB | Russian rouble | 39,9180 |
| THB | Thai baht | 38,179 |
| BRL | Brazilian real | 2,5697 |
| MXN | Mexican peso | 16,1410 |
| INR | Indian rupee | 69,9780 |

Currency

Exchange rate

USD

US dollar

1,2929

JPY

Japanese yen

122,88

DKK

Danish krone

7,4547

GBP

Pound sterling

0,85620

SEK

Swedish krona

8,3370

CHF

Swiss franc

1,2221

ISK

Iceland króna

NOK

Norwegian krone

7,5015

BGN

Bulgarian lev

1,9558

CZK

Czech koruna

25,620

HUF

Hungarian forint

307,17

LTL

Lithuanian litas

3,4528

LVL

Latvian lats

0,7012

PLN

Polish zloty

4,1565

RON

Romanian leu

4,4153

TRY

Turkish lira

2,3466

AUD

Australian dollar

1,2446

CAD

Canadian dollar

1,3211

HKD

Hong Kong dollar

10,0351

NZD

New Zealand dollar

1,5686

SGD

Singapore dollar

1,6157

KRW

South Korean won

1 439,04

ZAR

South African rand

11,8662

CNY

Chinese yuan renminbi

8,0399

HRK

Croatian kuna

7,5875

IDR

Indonesian rupiah

12 557,23

MYR

Malaysian ringgit

4,0487

PHP

Philippine peso

52,595

RUB

Russian rouble

39,9180

THB

Thai baht

38,179

BRL

Brazilian real

2,5697

MXN

Mexican peso

16,1410

INR

Indian rupee

69,9780

---

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

---

| 19.3.2013 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 80/14 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

19.3.2013

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 80/14

---

Notice pursuant to Article 19(2) of Council Regulation (EC) No 732/2008 of the termination of an investigation with respect to the effective implementation of the United Nations Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs in Bolivia

2013/C 80/07

On 20 March 2012, the Commission published the Commission Implementing Decision 2012/161/EU (1), providing for the initiation of an investigation in order to analyse the effects of the denunciation by the Plurinational State of Bolivia (hereinafter ‘Bolivia’) of the United Nations Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs (‘the UN Single Convention’ or ‘the Convention’) and whether that legislation is effectively implemented. The scope of the investigation was to determine whether the special incentive arrangement for sustainable development and good governance (‘the GSP+ tariff preferences’) which is granted to Bolivia according to Article 8 of the Council Regulation (EC) No 732/2008 (2) applying a scheme of generalised tariff preferences (‘the GSP Regulation’) should be withdrawn, according to the provisions that are contained in Article 15(2) of the Regulation.

The investigation was initiated following the Bolivian deposition with the Secretary-General of the United Nations of an instrument of denunciation of the UN Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs, on 29 June 2011. The denunciation took effect on 1 January 2012. On 29 December 2011, the Government of Bolivia requested the UN Secretary-General to re-accede to the UN Single Convention with a reservation which would allow in that country the traditional coca-leaf chewing, the consumption and use of the coca leaf in its natural state for cultural and medicinal purposes; its use in infusions; the cultivation, trade and possession of the coca leaf to the extent necessary for these licit purposes. The Convention's rules establish that, unless one third of the 183 government parties to the Convention had objected by 10 January 2013, this request would be accepted.

The Commission found that by 10 January 2013, the Bolivian instrument of re-accession had been opposed by just 15 government parties to the UN Single Convention. Therefore, Bolivia has re-acceded the Convention. The Convention has entered into force for Bolivia on 10 February 2013.

The Commission verified whether the Bolivian authorities had modified their legislation and practice towards illicit drugs after the denunciation of the Convention and if this led to a situation where the legislation was not effectively implemented. To this end, the Commission sent to the Bolivian Government a questionnaire. The Government of Bolivia provided an answer to the abovementioned questionnaire in good time. The Commission analysed the content of that response and transmitted to the Government of Bolivia a request for further clarification of certain elements of the response. Bolivia provided in good time an answer with the clarifications requested.

The Commission also took into account other relevant information, and in particular the last available reports of the relevant international bodies (International Narcotics Control Board (INCB) and United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC)).

The investigation revealed that rules and obligations under national law remained substantially unchanged after 29 June 2011. Bolivia has in place a system of internal legislation and international cooperation which are linked to the relevant international rules on fight to the production, trade and use of illicit drugs. None of the elements of this system has undergone any change after the denunciation of the UN Single Convention. The Bolivian legislation thus continues to incorporate the provisions of the Convention in line with Article 15(2).

The investigation also revealed that, pursuant to the denunciation of the Convention, there had been no weakening in the effective implementation of the legal provisions in force. Thus, Bolivia continued to effectively implement the relevant legislation.

On the basis of those elements, pursuant to Article 19(2) of the GSP Regulation the Commission decided in accordance with the procedure referred to in Article 27(5) of that Regulation that the findings of the investigation do not justify temporary withdrawal of GSP+ tariff preferences for Bolivia and therefore to terminate the investigation. It should be also recalled that in accordance with Article 8(3) of the GSP Regulation, the Commission is to continue to monitor the developments with respect to the status of ratification and the effective implementation of the UN Single Convention in Bolivia and react to them in accordance with the procedures available under the GSP Regulation, including, if necessary, by opening a new investigation on this issue.

---

(1)  OJ L 80, 20.3.2012, p. 30.

(2)  OJ L 211, 6.8.2008, p. 1.

---

V Announcements

PROCEDURES RELATING TO THE IMPLEMENTATION OF COMPETITION POLICY

European Commission

| 19.3.2013 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 80/15 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

19.3.2013

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 80/15

---

Prior notification of a concentration

(Case COMP/M.6879 — Mitsui Group/Gestamp Automoción/Target Companies)

Candidate case for simplified procedure

(Text with EEA relevance)

2013/C 80/08

| 1. | On 13 March 2013, the Commission received a notification of a proposed concentration pursuant to Article 4 of Council Regulation (EC) No 139/2004 (1) by which Mitsui & Co. Ltd (‘Mitsui’, Japan) and Gestamp Automoción SA (‘Gestamp Automoción’, Spain), belonging to the group Corporación Gestamp, SL (‘Gestamp’, Spain), acquire within the meaning of Article 3(1)(b) of the Merger Regulation joint control over North and South American subsidiaries of Gestamp Automoción (the ‘Target Companies’, USA, Mexico, Argentina and Brazil) by way of a purchase of shares. |
| --- | --- |

1.

On 13 March 2013, the Commission received a notification of a proposed concentration pursuant to Article 4 of Council Regulation (EC) No 139/2004 (1) by which Mitsui & Co. Ltd (‘Mitsui’, Japan) and Gestamp Automoción SA (‘Gestamp Automoción’, Spain), belonging to the group Corporación Gestamp, SL (‘Gestamp’, Spain), acquire within the meaning of Article 3(1)(b) of the Merger Regulation joint control over North and South American subsidiaries of Gestamp Automoción (the ‘Target Companies’, USA, Mexico, Argentina and Brazil) by way of a purchase of shares.

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






  — | for Mitsui: active worldwide in general trading in a number of commodities, including iron and steel; non-ferrous metals; machinery; electronics; chemicals; motor vehicles and motorcycles, and motor vehicle and motorcycle parts and accessories, |
| --- | --- | --- |

2.

The business activities of the undertakings concerned are:

—

for Mitsui: active worldwide in general trading in a number of commodities, including iron and steel; non-ferrous metals; machinery; electronics; chemicals; motor vehicles and motorcycles, and motor vehicle and motorcycle parts and accessories,

| — | for Gestamp Automoción: active worldwide in the steel, automotive components and renewable energy sectors, |
| --- | --- |

—

for Gestamp Automoción: active worldwide in the steel, automotive components and renewable energy sectors,

| — | for Target Companies: active in the production automotive flat steel components in Argentina, Brazil, Mexico and the USA. |
| --- | --- |

—

for Target Companies: active in the production automotive flat steel components in Argentina, Brazil, Mexico and the USA.

| 3. | On preliminary examination, the Commission finds that the notified transaction could fall within the scope of the EC Merger Regulation. However, the final decision on this point is reserved. Pursuant to the Commission Notice on a simplified procedure for treatment of certain concentrations under the EC Merger Regulation (2) it should be noted that this case is a candidate for treatment under the procedure set out in the Notice. |
| --- | --- |

3.

On preliminary examination, the Commission finds that the notified transaction could fall within the scope of the EC Merger Regulation. However, the final decision on this point is reserved. Pursuant to the Commission Notice on a simplified procedure for treatment of certain concentrations under the EC Merger Regulation (2) it should be noted that this case is a candidate for treatment under the procedure set out in the Notice.

| 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 email to COMP-MERGER-REGISTRY@ec.europa.eu or by post, under reference number COMP/M.6879 — Mitsui Group/Gestamp Automoción/Target Companies, 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 email to COMP-MERGER-REGISTRY@ec.europa.eu or by post, under reference number COMP/M.6879 — Mitsui Group/Gestamp Automoción/Target Companies, to the following address:

European Commission

Directorate-General for Competition

Merger Registry

1049 Bruxelles/Brussel

BELGIQUE/BELGIË

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

(2)  OJ C 56, 5.3.2005, p. 32 (‘Notice on a simplified procedure’).

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| 19.3.2013 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 80/16 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

19.3.2013

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 80/16

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Prior notification of a concentration

(Case COMP/M.6843 — Siemens/Invensys Rail)

(Text with EEA relevance)

2013/C 80/09

| 1. | On 12 March 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 undertaking Siemens AG (Germany) acquires within the meaning of Article 3(1)(b) of the Merger Regulation sole control over Invensys Rail (United Kingdom), a division of the Invensys group, by way of purchase of shares. |
| --- | --- |

1.

On 12 March 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 undertaking Siemens AG (Germany) acquires within the meaning of Article 3(1)(b) of the Merger Regulation sole control over Invensys Rail (United Kingdom), a division of the Invensys group, by way of purchase of shares.

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






  — | for Siemens AG: provider of products and services in the energy, healthcare, industry and infrastructure sectors, including railway signalling, |
| --- | --- | --- |

2.

The business activities of the undertakings concerned are:

—

for Siemens AG: provider of products and services in the energy, healthcare, industry and infrastructure sectors, including railway signalling,

| — | for Invensys Rail: provider of railway signalling projects and products. |
| --- | --- |

—

for Invensys Rail: provider of railway signalling projects and products.

| 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.6843 — Siemens/Invensys Rail, 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.6843 — Siemens/Invensys Rail, to the following address:

European Commission

Directorate-General for Competition

Merger Registry

1049 Bruxelles/Brussel

BELGIQUE/BELGIË

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

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OTHER ACTS

European Commission

| 19.3.2013 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 80/17 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

19.3.2013

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 80/17

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Publication of an 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 80/10

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).

SINGLE DOCUMENT

COUNCIL REGULATION (EC) No 510/2006

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

‘JAMBON SEC DE CORSE’/‘JAMBON SEC DE CORSE — PRISUTTU’

EC No: FR-PDO-0005-0993-26.04.2012

PGI ( ) PDO ( X )

1.   Name:

‘Jambon sec de Corse’/‘Jambon sec de Corse — Prisuttu’

2.   Member State or Third Country:

France

3.   Description of the agricultural product or foodstuff:

3.1.   Type of product:

| Class 1.2. | Meat products (cooked, salted, smoked, etc.) |
| --- | --- |

Class 1.2.

Meat products (cooked, salted, smoked, etc.)

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

The designation of origin ‘Jambon sec de Corse’/‘Jambon sec de Corse — Prisuttu’ refers to Corsican dry-cured ham produced from a leg of pork of the local Nustrale breed, which is salted, dry-cured and matured.

The salting, dry-curing and maturing lasts for at least 12 months, with a minimum maturing time of four months (this final phase of the production process takes place in a natural environment only, and is essential for the product to acquire its texture and develop its aromas).

The product has the following characteristics: it has a long shape and is trimmed in the form of a racquet, without the trotter, which is sawn off. The shank is thin and slender. In the centre, the femur is visible and is removed from the joint.

The exposed section of muscle and fat beyond the head of the femur at the lower end of the ham must be at least 14 cm long.

Its dry weight is between 6 and 10 kg. The fat cover is between 2,5 and 5,5 cm thick depending on the weight of the ham.

It is always on the bone, without the trotter and without any net or sock type of surface wrapping.

Slices have an oily appearance and the lean meat is red to dark red in colour and marbled.

The cover fat and intramuscular fat are white to pinkish in colour.

The texture is dense, tender and very smooth. It is very rich in aroma (of fruits, hazelnuts, dried ham, mushrooms or woodlands), has a typical salty flavour and a hint of pepper.

The fat is sweet, almost sugary in flavour.

The aroma and taste may be slightly smoky or buttery.

The physico-chemical and biochemical characteristics are as follows (% of dry product/reference muscle = biceps femoris):

| — | the total lipid content of the fat is ≥ 89 %, |
| --- | --- |

—

the total lipid content of the fat is ≥ 89 %,

| — | the salt content is between 6,5 % and 10 %, |
| --- | --- |

—

the salt content is between 6,5 % and 10 %,

| — | intramuscular lipids represent ≥ 6 %, |
| --- | --- |

—

intramuscular lipids represent ≥ 6 %,

| — | traces of Nitrite/Nitrate, |
| --- | --- |

—

traces of Nitrite/Nitrate,

| — | the lean meat has a 45 to 55 % humidity rate, |
| --- | --- |

—

the lean meat has a 45 to 55 % humidity rate,

| — | oleic acid is ≥ 45 %. |
| --- | --- |

—

oleic acid is ≥ 45 %.

The product can be sold in one piece, in vacuum-packed slices or portions, with a minimum weight of 300 grams (with or without the rind).

3.3.   Raw materials (for processed products only):

Carcass characteristics

The pork carcasses used in the production process weigh between 85 and 140 kg and are from pigs of the Nustrale breed between 12 and 36 months old at slaughter. The back-fat is between 2,5 and 6 cm thick.

The Nustrale breed, the high age at slaughter, the rearing on rangelands and the finishing on mainly chestnuts and/or acorns lend particular characteristics to the raw material: red to deep red colour of the meat, high lipid content and a specific quality of the fat.

Characteristics of the fresh hams

| — | The leg is cut in a long shape and trimmed in a round form. |
| --- | --- |

—

The leg is cut in a long shape and trimmed in a round form.

| — | Trotter sawn off above the joint. |
| --- | --- |

—

Trotter sawn off above the joint.

| — | Fresh weight between 8 kg and 14 kg. |
| --- | --- |

—

Fresh weight between 8 kg and 14 kg.

| — | Back-fat between 2,5 cm and 5,5 cm thick. |
| --- | --- |

—

Back-fat between 2,5 cm and 5,5 cm thick.

| — | Any procedures involving negative temperatures (freezing, quick-freezing, etc.) are forbidden. |
| --- | --- |

—

Any procedures involving negative temperatures (freezing, quick-freezing, etc.) are forbidden.

3.4.   Feed (for products of animal origin only):

After the weaning, the animals are reared on rangelands. These rangelands are areas in forests and pastures where the herds are moved according to parameters such as the seasonal availability of forage resources.

The animals partly feed themselves on these rangelands (grasses, roots, tubers, etc. The farmers feed the herds a maximum of 2 kilograms of supplementary rations per day and per pig in the rearing areas. This supplementary feed contains at least 90 % cereals, oilseeds, pulses and derived products in weight of the feed formula and as a weighted average, and at least 60 % cereals and derived products (wheat, barley, maize). It may contain maize up to 45 days before the finishing phase.

The finishing lasts for at least 45 days between October and March. For at least the first 30 days of this time, the animals feed on nothing but acorns and chestnuts, which they forage in the finishing areas (oak and chestnut groves). Thereafter, supplementary barley feed may be given for a maximum of 4 kg per day per pig. The total amount of the daily barley rations given by the farmer may not exceed 30 % of the chestnut and/or acorn feed during the finishing phase.

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

All stages in the production process (the farrowing, rearing, finishing, slaughtering of the pigs, the processing and maturing of the meats) must take place in the geographical area.

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

The cutting, slicing and packaging must take place in the geographical area for the following reasons:

| — | to avoid losing control of the organoleptic qualities when the products are stored and handled, |
| --- | --- |

—

to avoid losing control of the organoleptic qualities when the products are stored and handled,

| — | to avoid losing control of the monitoring, traceability and relabelling of the products. |
| --- | --- |

—

to avoid losing control of the monitoring, traceability and relabelling of the products.

The product is sliced by hand, using knives only, in order to prevent heating of the meat, which could cause the product's specific organoleptic qualities to deteriorate. Utensils authorised are boning knives, slicing knives, salmon slicers, and ham stands or any other holders.

After the products have been portioned and sliced, they are immediately vacuum-packed.

The lean meat is red to deep red in colour. Due to the absence of preservatives (that limit oxidation and thus stabilise the product's colour) other than salt, it is essential for the meat to be vacuum-packed as quickly as possible in order to prevent darkening.

The fat, which has a typical flavour, aroma, colour and sheen, turns rancid easily when exposed to the open air, which confirms the need for the product to be vacuum-packed as quickly as possible.

Once the portioning of a ham has started, the meat must be completely packaged within 12 hours.

These measures aim to prevent any loss of the product’s original quality, in particular with regard to its organoleptic characteristics.

3.7.   Specific rules concerning labelling:

In addition to the information that processed meat products are required to carry by law, labels of products with the ‘Jambon sec de Corse’/‘Jambon sec de Corse — Prisuttu’ denomination of origin must include the following references:

| — | the denomination of origin ‘Jambon sec de Corse’/‘Jambon sec de Corse — Prisuttu’, |
| --- | --- |

—

the denomination of origin ‘Jambon sec de Corse’/‘Jambon sec de Corse — Prisuttu’,

| — | the PDO symbol of the European Union, as from the time of registration with the European Union. |
| --- | --- |

—

the PDO symbol of the European Union, as from the time of registration with the European Union.

No products except those made from animals that are finished on chestnuts and/or acorns may carry the reference ‘finition châtaigne et/ou gland’ (finished on chestnuts and/or acorns) or ‘porcs finis à la châtaigne et/ou au gland’ (pigs finished on chestnuts and/or acorns) or ‘100 % châtaignes/glands’ (100 % chestnuts/acorns).

4.   Concise definition of the geographical area:

The definition of the geographical area of the denomination of origin ‘Jambon sec de Corse’/‘Jambon sec de Corse — Prisuttu’ is based on the municipalities whose natural environment meets the traditional rearing and processing requirements of ‘Jambon sec de Corse’/‘Jambon sec de Corse — Prisuttu’, which is all of the Corsican territory except for the coast, as it does not satisfy the production requirements of the product.

The geographical area thus comprises the departments of Corse-du-Sud and Haute-Corse, of which the following municipalities are partly covered:

| | Department of Corse-du-Sud: Afa, Ajaccio, Alata, Albitreccia, Ambiegna, Appietto, Arbellara, Arbori, Arro, Bastelicaccia, Belvédère-Campomoro, Bonifacio, Calcatoggio, Cannelle, Cargèse, Casaglione, Casalabriva, Cauro, Coggia, Cognocoli-Monticchi, Conca, Coti-Chiavari, Cuttoli-Corticchiato, Eccica-Suarella, Figari, Fozzano, Grosseto-Prugna, Lecci, Lopigna, Loreto-di-Tallano, Marignana, Monacia-d'Aullène, Olmeto, Olmiccia, Osani, Ota, Partinello, Piana, Pianottoli-Caldarello, Pietrosella, Pila-Canale, Porto-Vecchio, Propriano, Sainte-Lucie-de-Tallano, San-Gavino-di-Carbini, Sant'Andréa-d'Orcino, Sari-Solenzara, Sarrola-Carcopino, Sartène, Serra-di-Ferro, Serriera, Sollacaro, Sotta, Vico, Viggianello, Villanova, Zonza. |
| --- | --- |

Department of Corse-du-Sud: Afa, Ajaccio, Alata, Albitreccia, Ambiegna, Appietto, Arbellara, Arbori, Arro, Bastelicaccia, Belvédère-Campomoro, Bonifacio, Calcatoggio, Cannelle, Cargèse, Casaglione, Casalabriva, Cauro, Coggia, Cognocoli-Monticchi, Conca, Coti-Chiavari, Cuttoli-Corticchiato, Eccica-Suarella, Figari, Fozzano, Grosseto-Prugna, Lecci, Lopigna, Loreto-di-Tallano, Marignana, Monacia-d'Aullène, Olmeto, Olmiccia, Osani, Ota, Partinello, Piana, Pianottoli-Caldarello, Pietrosella, Pila-Canale, Porto-Vecchio, Propriano, Sainte-Lucie-de-Tallano, San-Gavino-di-Carbini, Sant'Andréa-d'Orcino, Sari-Solenzara, Sarrola-Carcopino, Sartène, Serra-di-Ferro, Serriera, Sollacaro, Sotta, Vico, Viggianello, Villanova, Zonza.

| | Department of Haute-Corse: Aghione, Aléria, Algajola, Antisanti, Aregno, Barbaggio, Barrettali, Bastia, Belgodère, Biguglia, Borgo, Brando, Cagnano, Calenzana, Calvi, Canale-di-Verde, Canari, Castellare-di-Casinca, Centuri, Cervione, Chiatra, Corbara, Ersa, Farinole, Furiani, Galéria, Ghisonaccia, Giuncaggio, L'Ile-Rousse, Linguizzetta, Lucciana, Lugo-di-Nazza, Lumio, Luri, Meria, Monte, Montegrosso, Monticello, Morsiglia, Nonza, Novella, Occhiatana, Ogliastro, Oletta, Olmeta-di-Capocorso, Olmeta-di-Tuda, Olmo, Palasca, Pancheraccia, Patrimonio, Penta-di-Casinca, Pietracorbara, Pietroso, Piève, Pigna, Pino, Poggio-di-Nazza, Poggio-d'Oletta, Poggio-Mezzana, Prunelli-di-Casacconi, Prunelli-di-Fiumorbo, Pruno, Rapale, Rogliano, Rutali, Saint-Florent, San-Gavino-di-Tenda, San-Giuliano, San-Martino-di-Lota, San-Nicolao, Santa-Lucia-di-Moriani, Santa-Maria-di-Lota, Santa-Maria-Poggio, Santa-Reparata-di-Balagna, Santo-Pietro-di-Tenda, Serra-di-Fiumorbo, Sisco, Solaro, Sorbo-Ocagnano, Speloncato, Taglio-Isolaccio, Talasani, Tallone, Tomino, Tox, Urtaca, Vallecalle, Valle-di-Campoloro, Ventiseri, Venzolasca, Vescovato, Vignale, Ville-di-Paraso, Ville-di-Pietrabugno, Volpajola. |
| --- | --- |

Department of Haute-Corse: Aghione, Aléria, Algajola, Antisanti, Aregno, Barbaggio, Barrettali, Bastia, Belgodère, Biguglia, Borgo, Brando, Cagnano, Calenzana, Calvi, Canale-di-Verde, Canari, Castellare-di-Casinca, Centuri, Cervione, Chiatra, Corbara, Ersa, Farinole, Furiani, Galéria, Ghisonaccia, Giuncaggio, L'Ile-Rousse, Linguizzetta, Lucciana, Lugo-di-Nazza, Lumio, Luri, Meria, Monte, Montegrosso, Monticello, Morsiglia, Nonza, Novella, Occhiatana, Ogliastro, Oletta, Olmeta-di-Capocorso, Olmeta-di-Tuda, Olmo, Palasca, Pancheraccia, Patrimonio, Penta-di-Casinca, Pietracorbara, Pietroso, Piève, Pigna, Pino, Poggio-di-Nazza, Poggio-d'Oletta, Poggio-Mezzana, Prunelli-di-Casacconi, Prunelli-di-Fiumorbo, Pruno, Rapale, Rogliano, Rutali, Saint-Florent, San-Gavino-di-Tenda, San-Giuliano, San-Martino-di-Lota, San-Nicolao, Santa-Lucia-di-Moriani, Santa-Maria-di-Lota, Santa-Maria-Poggio, Santa-Reparata-di-Balagna, Santo-Pietro-di-Tenda, Serra-di-Fiumorbo, Sisco, Solaro, Sorbo-Ocagnano, Speloncato, Taglio-Isolaccio, Talasani, Tallone, Tomino, Tox, Urtaca, Vallecalle, Valle-di-Campoloro, Ventiseri, Venzolasca, Vescovato, Vignale, Ville-di-Paraso, Ville-di-Pietrabugno, Volpajola.

A map delineating the boundaries of the geographical area has been lodged with the municipal authorities of the partly covered municipalities. A map of these municipalities is available on the website of the competent national authority in line with the requirements of the INSPIRE Directive.

5.   Link with the geographical area:

5.1.   Specificity of the geographical area:

Corsica has a particularly distinctive natural environment in terms of its climate, topography and soil as well as the functioning of its ecosystems.

Geologically, the west of Corsica is Hercynian, dominated by granites, granulites and porphyries, which produce a landscape of high rocky peaks, and the northeast is Alpine, with lustrous schists and various sedimentary terrains, lower altitudes and less towering reliefs. The combination of soil and various climatic altitude bands allows for a significant plant cover and enables the growth of vegetation suited to the rearing of this specific pig herd.

Corsica has a Mediterranean climate but, due to its insularity as well as the diversity of altitudes and exposures as a result of its complex topography, the climate is extremely varied, which sometimes makes for striking contrasts between valleys or even nearby mountain faces.

At present, Corsica has a mostly paleomediterranean flora. The island’s isolation has benefited the development of species, which explains why Corsica counts a high proportion of endemic plants.

Among the various altitude bands of vegetation is the subhumid Mediterranean band, which is characterised by the presence of cork oak and holm oak. The most widespread type of vegetation in this band is the maquis (shrubby scrubland).

A typical tree of the humid Mediterranean band is the chestnut. This is the level at which the olive tree is no longer found, as its upper limit coincides with the chestnut’s lower limit.

Thus, Corsica is ideally suited to forests as its soil and climate conditions are, by and large, very favourable to woodland vegetation. Oak and chestnut are particularly abundant throughout the island.

The processed meat products have a long history and, along with dairy products, were one of the staple sources of animal protein in the traditional diet of the island for a very long time.

The current rearing methods hark back to an age-old pastoral tradition which was to move herds of pigs across mountain forests or summer pastures (rangelands) according to the forage resources naturally present in the environment.

The Nustrale is a local, Iberian type of breed. It is a hardy animal that is particularly suited to this type of rearing. It makes good use of the natural resources that it finds. The sows lead the herds across the varied rangelands (wooded areas, summer pastures, etc.). These rangelands may also move with the seasons and the forage resources present in the environment.

From the time the pigs are weaned until they are fully grown, they are given, on the rangelands, the rations of feed that are essential to their development. The pigs also feed on the forage resources present on the rangelands (grasses, roots, tubers, etc.).

During the finishing phase, the animals are left to roam oak and chestnut groves at the time of fruit production. They mostly feed on chestnuts and/or acorns through autumn and winter. The only supplement authorised is barley.

This is a key stage in the process that directly affects weight gain and fat quality (high levels of monounsaturated fat and low levels of saturated fatty acid).

The climatic conditions of the rearing areas called for appropriate preservation methods. This sparked the production of dry processed meats, with curing and drying as the preservation methods of choice.

Before the arrival of refrigeration in the late 19th century, the islanders made good use of the possibilities offered by the environment. That is why slaughtered and processed meat used to be and still is highly seasoned. Thanks to its long maturing time and preservation qualities ‘Jambon sec de Corse’/‘Jambon sec de Corse — Prisuttu’ presents the advantage of being available all year round. It has always been a product for special occasions, usually enjoyed at festive or other events throughout the year.

The processing is done by natural methods. Historically, and up to the present day, the only additives used have been salt, pepper or chilli (no preservatives). The product is heat-dried using fires of local hardwoods.

The time and traditional conditions of maturing (in natural cellars and at room temperature) enable specific organoleptic qualities to develop, particularly in terms of aroma and texture.

5.2.   Specificity of the product:

‘Jambon sec de Corse’/‘Jambon sec de Corse — Prisuttu’ has the following specific characteristics:

| — | The ham has a specific long and flat shape. The shank is thin and slender. |
| --- | --- |

—

The ham has a specific long and flat shape. The shank is thin and slender.

| — | When sliced, the lean meat is red to deep red in colour according to the pigment content of the muscles. |
| --- | --- |

—

When sliced, the lean meat is red to deep red in colour according to the pigment content of the muscles.

| — | The lean meat is marbled due to an intramuscular lipid rate of 6 % or more. |
| --- | --- |

—

The lean meat is marbled due to an intramuscular lipid rate of 6 % or more.

| — | Slices have an oily appearance due to a high fatty acid content. |
| --- | --- |

—

Slices have an oily appearance due to a high fatty acid content.

| — | Slices have a tender and very smooth texture due to high lipolysis. |
| --- | --- |

—

Slices have a tender and very smooth texture due to high lipolysis.

| — | Slices are very rich in aroma (of fruits, hazelnuts, dried ham, mushrooms or woodlands), have a characteristic salty flavour due to a salt content between 6,5 and 10 %, and the fat has a hint of pepper and a sweet, almost sugary flavour. |
| --- | --- |

—

Slices are very rich in aroma (of fruits, hazelnuts, dried ham, mushrooms or woodlands), have a characteristic salty flavour due to a salt content between 6,5 and 10 %, and the fat has a hint of pepper and a sweet, almost sugary flavour.

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 use of Nustrale pigs is an essential feature of local production. Indeed, the hardiness of this local breed, which is able to withstand significant changes of weather and feed and to build up fat reserves quickly when food is abundant, and the way in which it is reared are authentic and particularly well adapted to the territory: mountainous area, rearing on rangelands, long production cycle (high slaughter age with a carcass weight that is always under 140 kg), feeding based on natural resources, in particular during the finishing phase.

The extensive rearing of pigs in Corsica benefits from abundant feed resources throughout virtually the whole territory: chestnut and holm oak grow both in natural forest areas highly impacted by human intervention and in areas that can be described as part farmland, part forest.

The suitability of the breed combined with the natural resources available makes for a product whose quality is evident from its red to deep red colour, high adiposity (proportion of fat to lean meat and intense marbling) and a dry weight of less than 10 kg. The shape of ‘Jambon sec de Corse’/‘Jambon sec de Corse — Prisuttu’ (slender and long shank, flat ham) derives from the genetic characteristics of the Nustrale breed.

Moreover, the finishing phase directly affects:

| — | the weight gained by the animal, in particular due to an increase of the subcutaneous fat layer (more than 2,5 cm), |
| --- | --- |

—

the weight gained by the animal, in particular due to an increase of the subcutaneous fat layer (more than 2,5 cm),

| — | fat quality (high levels of monounsaturated fat and low levels of saturated fatty acid). |
| --- | --- |

—

fat quality (high levels of monounsaturated fat and low levels of saturated fatty acid).

As a result, the pork meat lends itself well to curing. The salting practices, which include the use of sea salt as the sole preservative, explain the distinctly salty taste of the finished product. In addition, the product is trimmed into a specific shape.

The pork meat is also well-suited to a long maturing time in natural environmental conditions. This translates into specific organoleptic characteristics such as a dense and tender texture and a very rich aroma.

The relatively high levels of salt and the long production cycle (dry-curing and maturing) generate little proteolysis and high lipolysis, which confers specific organoleptic characteristics on the product, notably its tender and smooth texture.

Reference to publication of the specification:

(Article 5(7) of Regulation (EC) No 510/2006 (3))

http://agriculture.gouv.fr/IMG/pdf/CDCJambonSecDeCorse_cle88b2e1.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 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 21 November 2012 on quality schemes for agricultural products and foodstuffs.

(3)  See footnote 2.

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Corrigenda

| 19.3.2013 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 80/23 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

19.3.2013

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 80/23

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

(
  Official Journal of the European Union C 43 of 15 February 2013
  )

2013/C 80/11

On page 21, State aid SA35747 (12/N):

for:

‘Intensity: measure does not constitute aid’,

read:

‘Intensity: —’.

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