This follows the Commission’s proposal presented on 31 January, and discussions with Member States in committee meetings. The Regulation enters into force today, 14 February, and will apply retroactively from 1 January for one year, i.e. until 31 December 2024. The partial exemption accommodates several requests for more flexibility, as requested by Member States to better […]
First evaluation of the Frontex Regulation delivers overall positive assessment despite challenges
On 2 February, the Commission adopted the evaluation of the European Border and Coast Guard Regulation (Frontex Regulation) together with an Action Plan to support its implementation. With this first evaluation of the Frontex regulation, which is a legal obligation, the Commission has assessed the impact, effectiveness and efficiency of Frontex. Ensuring a robust and […]
Deal on new stricter anti money laundering rules
The Council and Parliament found a provisional agreement on parts of the anti-money laundering package that aims to protect EU citizens and the EU’s financial system against money laundering and terrorist financing. With the new package, all rules applying to the private sector will be transferred to a new regulation, while the directive will deal […]
Stopping greenwashing: how the EU regulates green claims
The EU aims to put an end to greenwashing, when companies claim to be greener than they are, and provide more information to consumers on the durability of products they buy. In order to better protect consumers’ rights, promote environmentally-friendly decisions and create a circular economy that reuses and recycles materials, the European Parliament is […]
The European Union will extend geographical indications to artisanal and industrial products
The Council has adopted a regulation on geographical indication protection for craft and industrial products. This is the last step in the decision-making procedure. Once this regulation comes into force, the geographical indications (GI) of industrial products linked to the geographical area of production (such as Albacete cutlery, Bohemian glass, Limoges porcelain) will enjoy similar […]
European Commission proposes detergents regulation to better protect health and environment
The Commission proposed a revised Regulation on detergents that simplifies and future-proofs the current rules to better protect health and the environment, as well as ensure the better functioning of the Single Market for detergents. The revised rules cover new innovative products like detergents containing micro-organisms and sustainable new practices like the refill sale of […]
The European Commission proposes rules on the transfer of criminal proceedings between Member States in the face of increasing cross-border crime
Increasing cross-border crime has led to more and more cases where several Member States have jurisdiction to prosecute the same case. Parallel or multiple prosecutions can be inefficient and ineffective, but also possibly detrimental to the rights of the individuals concerned as a person may not be prosecuted or punished for the same offence twice. […]
European Council adopts regulation on CO2 emissions from new passenger cars and vans
‘Fit for 55’: The new rules aim to reduce emissions from road transport that has the highest share of emissions from transport – and provide the right push for the automotive industry to shift towards zero-emission mobility while ensuring continued innovation in the industry. The new rules set the following targets: 55% CO2 emission reductions for […]
Foreign subsidies regulation enters into force to ensure fairer EU markets
The Foreign Subsidies Regulation (‘FSR’) enters into force. This new set of rules for addressing distortions caused by foreign subsidies will allow the EU to remain open to trade and investment, while ensuring a level playing field for all companies operating in the Single Market. The Regulation was proposed by the Commission in May 2021 and agreed by […]