state aids

state aids

part of the competition policy of the EUROPEAN UNION that prohibits Member States granting aid in such a way that it affects trade between Member States. The prohibition strikes at aid which confers an economic advantage on the recipient; it is granted selectively to certain enterprises or products; it may distort competition; it affects trade between Member States. Member States must notify such aid, and it maybe permitted as being in the general interest of the economy without distorting trade.