The programme was approved by the EC under EU state aid rules. The scheme has a €40m annual budget and will run from 2021 to 2025. Under the initiative, companies will be compensated for up to 50% of the cost of installing new infrastructure such as sidings and 80% for the cost of new transhipment facilities.

The commission says it found the scheme beneficial to the environment and is in line with the objectives of the European Green Deal.