Beach concessions, Italy reassesses aim as EU hopes to end infringement procedure

Brussels – Beach concessions, for Italy and the European Union, the end of the tug-of-war over the shoreline use regime is approaching. The Meloni government is launching a decree that puts an end to automatic renewal in 2027, requiring concessionaires to issue new tenders by June of that year. “An important step in the right direction” of true and free competition respecting the domestic market services directive, comments the community executive through spokeswoman Johanna Bersnel. With this national arrangement, “we hope to be able to close the infringement procedure” against Italy, she acknowledges, although explaining that it will not be automatic. “The measures will have to be translated into practice” before closing the litigation that has been dragging on since 2016.

The Court of Justice of the EU has condemned Italy for the manner contrary to European rules in which coastal state assets are conceded to private management, first in 2016, then in 2023. Italy had decided to automatically extend beach concessions until 2033 without the calls for tenders required by EU regulations and the Commission. The Meloni government’s proposal operates as a compromise solution, which in Brussels “we welcome,” Bersnel admitted, adding that “a common understanding has been found with the Italian authorities” on the issue. We are nearing the word “end” to a years-long affair, provided Italy keeps its word.

“The infringement procedure will remain open until Italy is fully aligned with European regulations,” the EU executive’s spokeswoman further punctuates. Italy thus remains under the EU’s magnifying glass. Once again, government moves will be awaited.