The European Commission has approved a Cypriot scheme worth approximately €560,000 to support agricultural distribution groups and organizations in the country affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, CNA reports.

The Commission concluded that the measure is necessary, appropriate and proportionate to address the serious disruption to the member state’s economy and approved it in accordance with EU rules on state aid.

The state support will take the form of direct grants. The purpose of the scheme is to improve the liquidity of businesses that have reduced sales and increased operating costs due to the pandemic. The maximum grant is 100,000 euros per recipient; support can be provided until June 30, 2021.