AI fast-paced development is undeniable, and to maintain a competitive advantage for the EU, its adoption rate should be accelerated. With the new Apply AI Strategy, the Commission seeks to boost AI adoption across key industrial sectors, especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), enhance efficiency and accessibility of public services and support the development of European […]
Commission proposes Mercosur and Mexico agreements for adoption
The European Commission has put forward its proposals to the Council for the signature and conclusion of the EU-Mercosur Partnership Agreement (EMPA) and the EU-Mexico Modernised Global Agreement (MGA). These landmark deals form a critical part of the EU’s strategy to diversify its trade relations and strengthen economic and political ties with like-minded partners around […]
Investment in education across Europe is increasing
A new report from the European Commission highlights a positive shift in education funding across Europe, which is boosting the EU’s competitive advantage. The report, entitled ‘Investing in Education 2025’, details multiple economic and social benefits and shows that public investment in education is recovering after the decline caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, although it […]
Voluntary sustainability reporting standard to ease burden on SMEs
The Commission has adopted last July 30 a recommendation on voluntary sustainability reporting for small and medium-sized companies (SMEs). The recommendation presents a voluntary standard that will make it easier for SMEs that are not covered by the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) to respond to specific requests for sustainability information from large financial institutions and companies. The […]
A simpler tax architecture to benefit EU firms and citizens
MEPs on Tuesday adopted suggestions for reforms to the tax architecture to boost competitiveness while continuing to address tax avoidance and evasion. The report, drafted by Michalis Hadjipantela (EPP, CY), was adopted in the Economic and Monetary Affairs Committee by 46 votes in favour, 2 votes against and 11 abstentions. It will feed into the ongoing legislative […]
An ambitious budget for a stronger Europe: 2028-2034
Last July 16, the European Commission presented its proposal for an ambitious and dynamic Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), amounting to almost EUR 2 trillion (or 1.26% of the EU’s gross national income on average between 2028 and 2034). This framework will equip Europe with a long-term investment budget matching its ambitions to be an independent, […]
Commission strengthens Europe’s chemical industry
Last July 8, the European Commission presented an Action Plan for the Chemicals Industry to strengthen the competitiveness and modernisation of the EU chemical sector. The Action Plan addresses key challenges, namely high energy costs, unfair global competition, and weak demand, while promoting investment in innovation and sustainability. The Action Plan is accompanied by a […]
2025 European Semester Spring Package sets out guidance to boost EU competitiveness
The 2025 European Semester Spring Package analyses the key economic and social challenges across the EU and offers policy guidance to Member States with the aim of strengthening competitiveness, prosperity and resilience. To that effect, it includes country-specific recommendations (CSRs), and promotes reforms and investments aligned with these EU priorities. The policy guidance presented comes at a time of […]
Commission simplifies CAP to support farmers and enhance competitiveness
To simplify the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) and boost farmers’ competitiveness, the European Commission presented last May 14 a large package of measures targeting the administrative burden, controls, implementation, crisis response and investment needs of the sector. The changes could save up to €1.58 billion annually for farmers and €210 million for national administrations, while […]