Ethyl alcohol of agricultural origin: common organisation of the market CMO

PURPOSE : to establish specific measures in the sector of ethyl alcohol of agricultural origin. LEGISLATIVE ACT : Council Regulation 670/2003/EC laying down specific measures concerning the market in ethyl alcohol of agricultural origin. CONTENT : the Council adopted by qualified majority, the Italian delegation voting against, a Regulation laying down specific measures concerning the market in ethyl alcohol of agricultural origin. The main objectives of this proposal are to increase market information, monitor trade flows and establish a forum for discussion and preparing of decisions. The Regulation adopted includes in particular a provision on national aids monitored by the Commission under which, Germany is authorised to grant aids to its alcohol producers for an additional seven years period. The amount of aid granted per year cannot overshoot the amount of aid granted in 2002. A statement is also added regarding the possibility for Germany to grant compensatory aid in five equal instalments to a distiller, who voluntarily decides to leave the Monopoly. ENTRY INTO FORCE : 22/04/2003. It shall apply from 01/01/2004.�