For the purpose of distributing book publishers publications and non-profit organisation, the European Commission has approved €171.74 million in public service compensation to Poste Italiane for the period 2017-19.

According to the European Commission news release, The Commission assessed the measure under the EU State aid rules on public service compensation. These rules enable Member States, subject to certain conditions, to compensate companies that have been entrusted with public service obligations for the extra cost of providing these services.

The Commission saw that the money will not exceed the amount spent by the Italian postal operator on the services provided.

According to the European body, “The Commission concluded that the Italian measure is in line with EU State aid rules, as it fosters a service of general public interest and promotes media plurality, without unduly distorting competition.”