Update of 25 February 2025
Amendment to the Milleproroghe Decree approved: structural support for last-mile rail freight
The incentive for rail freight shunting operations in ports has been made structural. Following the authorization granted by the European Commission in January, which allowed Italy to support last-mile rail freight in maritime ports (see below), the amendment to the Milleproroghe Decree has been approved, extending the measure until 31 December 2030. The decree will be converted into law by 1 March.
Originally set to expire in December 2026, the measure is now extended by four years, consolidating a tool considered strategic for supporting rail freight transport in ports and addressing the decline in rail traffic. The total funding amounts to €30 million over the entire reference period. Each Port System Authority may grant incentives of up to €500,000 per year.
Beneficiary shunting operators will be required to transfer 50% of the contribution received to railway undertakings, effectively creating a “Port Ferrobonus” aimed at reducing operating costs and improving the competitiveness of rail freight compared to other transport modes.
EU Approval for State Aid to Rail Freight Shunting Operations in Italian Ports
The European Commission has approved Italy’s request to grant State aid in support of rail freight shunting operations in ports, authorising a measure aimed at supporting the rail cargo sector.
The scheme, known as the “Port Ferrobonus”, will be valid for five years and provides for a reduction in tariffs for rail freight operators and their customers. The measure is designed to support rail shunting activities within ports.
Under the Commission’s decision, Italian Port System Authorities are authorised to grant incentives of up to €500,000 per year per Authority, for a total amount of €30 million over the reference period.
The aid is addressed to rail shunting operators, who will be required to pass on 50% of the contribution to railway undertakings, following a mechanism similar to the existing Ferrobonus scheme.
Implementation of the measure is subject to the adoption of an interministerial implementing decree. Once adopted, Port System Authorities may optionally proceed with the publication of calls for proposals for the allocation of the incentives.