With only a few days left until the deadline set by the central government for fund transfer, the Islands remain in anticipation. Sources from the regional executive, headed by Fernando Clavijo, have stated that the money has not arrived and there are no indications of an imminent receipt.
This delay occurs in a context where diplomatic progress towards a cessation of hostilities between the United States and Iran has advanced, despite recent incidents. International diplomacy is moving forward, but the financial commitment to the Canary Islands remains unfulfilled.
The agreement, reached in April, stipulated a state contribution of 15 million euros before June 30 to co-finance the anti-crisis measures adopted by the autonomous community. Additionally, an increase to over 60 million was contemplated if the conflict extended beyond the initial three months.
The pact was jointly announced by the Minister of Territorial Policy, Ángel Víctor Torres, and President Clavijo. However, the regional government points out that the aid has not materialized, reviving concerns about potential state policy designs that do not consider the fiscal and energy specificities of the Islands.
The situation dates back to the anti-crisis shield approved by the Council of Ministers on March 20, which included tax rebates (VAT on electricity, gas, fuels) with little direct impact in the Canary Islands, where IGIC applies. The regional executive, through deputy Cristina Valido, had already requested specific treatment for the Islands, given their reliance on transport and unique energy system.
The negotiation culminated in the specific April agreement, the non-compliance of which is causing discontent. The Canary Islands government launched its own set of measures on April 7, including the temporary application of a zero percent IGIC rate on energy products, with an estimated cost of 3.9 million for the first 100 days. Tax refunds for transporters and farmers were also enhanced.
Other measures in the Canary Islands' shield include extending essential goods to the 0% IGIC rate (salt, butter, coffee) and raising the annual turnover limit for self-employed individuals. The projected cost for these measures amounts to 12.5 million euros.
The absence of the 15 million euros promised by the state exacerbates institutional tension, as the Canary Islands were counting on this funding to supplement their economic response. While a ceasefire in Iran now has a date, the arrival of state funds for the Islands remains uncertain.
