UNO urges the Government to extend transport aid given the ongoing crisis in the Middle East

Logistics and Transportation

The logistics employers' association UNO has requested that Minister Carlos Cuerpo extend the extraordinary transport subsidies, which expire on June 30. The organization, chaired by Francisco Aranda, cites the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and delays in the payment of outstanding subsidies as reasons for the extension, as this is putting a strain on the sector's finances.

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The logistics sector is calling for certainty in the face of geopolitical volatility.

The business organization of logistics and transport operators, UNO, has formally requested the Minister of Economy, Trade and Business, Carlos CuerpoThe urgent extension of extraordinary transport aid has been requested. The petition, presented at a follow-up meeting, seeks to extend the support measures beyond their expiration on June 30, arguing the need to provide certainty to a sector that is key to Spanish foreign trade and has been severely affected by the conflict in the Middle East.

President of UNO, Francisco ArandaHe was tasked with conveying to the minister the need to maintain the support mechanisms for at least an additional quarter. "It does not seem reasonable to withdraw the support instruments while the factors that motivated their approval persist. Companies need certainty to plan their activity and make investment and hiring decisions in a context that continues to be marked by the..." energy volatility and international uncertainty"," he noted Aranda.

Payment delays and cash flow problems

Another critical point addressed at the meeting was the concern about the delay in the effective implementation of the aid contemplated in the Real Decreto-Ley 7 / 2026This delay is contingent upon final authorization from the Comisión Europeawhich has prevented the payment of bonuses to date 20 cents per liter of fuel intended for professional transport.

This delay is having serious consequences for the liquidity of companies in the sector. "The problem is not only the delay in receiving the aid, but also the lack of certainty regarding the deadlines," explained the president of UNO. By Aranda"Many companies have had to resort to external financing to absorb the increased costs caused by this crisis, which is generating..." treasury stresses and a higher level of debt. Companies need to know when they will be able to access compensation that is already part of their cost structure and financial planning."

Key information regarding the application for transport aid.

Concept	Detail
Help Requested	Extension of extraordinary transport aid.
Reason	Economic impact of the conflict in the Middle East.
Current Validity	Expires on June 30, 2026.
Extension Requested	At least one additional quarter (until September 30, 2026).
Key Bonus Pending	20 cents per liter of fuel (pending authorization from the Comisión Europea).

Public-private collaboration to preserve supply chains

Francisco Aranda He insisted that the situation is not temporary, but rather sustained over time, with energy costs far exceeding pre-crisis levels. "There are no prospects for stabilization in the short term, which is putting upward pressure on prices." operating costs "of the sector," he stated. The employers' association welcomed the meeting with the Ministry, emphasizing the importance of monitoring energy price trends, transportation costs, insurance related to international trade, and the operation of key logistics corridors.

In this regard, public-private collaboration is emerging as a fundamental element for the sector's resilience. "The ability to anticipate and public-private collaboration will be essential to respond effectively if the international situation persists or if there is a new escalation of geopolitical tensions," he concluded. Aranda.

Key points and frequently asked questions about transport assistance

How does the delay in transport subsidies affect my company?

The delay in the payment of subsidies, especially the 20-cent per liter fuel discount, directly impacts the cash flow of transport and logistics companies. It forces them to seek external financing, increasing their debt and disrupting their financial planning, as these subsidies had been factored into their projected cost structure.

What are the consequences for Spanish foreign trade of the instability in the Middle East?

Instability in this strategic region is causing a sustained increase in energy costs, which in turn makes the entire supply chain more expensive. Furthermore, it is driving up transport insurance premiums and can disrupt key logistics corridors, impacting the competitiveness of Spanish exports and imports.

What should exporters and importers take into account in this situation?

It is crucial that companies with international operations closely monitor operational and logistical costs. Diversifying routes, if possible, is recommended, along with reviewing cargo insurance policies and maintaining open communication with logistics providers to anticipate potential delays or cost overruns in the supply chain.