The Cypriot Commissioner for State aid control authorizes an aid scheme for small and medium-sized enterprises for the promotion of alternative forms of economic activities in the field of agri-tourism (Small and medium-sized enterprises)

Factual Background On 29 March 2005, the Department of Town Planning and Housing of the Ministry of Interior notified to the Commissioner for State aid control a draft aid scheme, entitled “aid scheme for small and medium-sized enterprises for the promotion of alternative forms of economic activities in the field of rural tourism”. The scheme aims at the encouragement of investments by small and medium-sized enterprises in forms of business activity centered upon the promotion and enrichment of the cultural and environmental elements of the countryside, as well as at the rescue, preservation, restoration and enhancement of the traditional character and authenticity of the countryside and, thus, of the cultural identity of Cyprus. The notified scheme is based on Commission Regulation