Discussing Europe’s competitiveness and policy priorities with EVPs Virkkunen and Fitto

This week, our President Fredrik Persson and Director General Markus J. Beyrer held high-level discussions with European Commission Executive Vice-Presidents Henna Virkkunen and Raffaele Fitto on the urgent need to restore Europe’s attractiveness as a prime business and investment destination.

In their talks with Virkkunen, Persson and Beyrer also highlighted the digital agenda, stressing that the current focus and commitment to implementing digital policy rules are positive steps forward. Meanwhile, their discussions with Fitto addressed the future of Cohesion Policy, with a clear message:

To effectively contribute to EU strategic objectives and regional competitiveness, the Cohesion Policy under the next multiannual financial framework must be modernised. Key priorities include 1) simplification, 2) stronger private sector involvement, and 3) ensuring funds are directed towards high-quality projects.

EU businesses’ take on Clean Industrial Deal and 1^st EU Omnibus

Two key announcements from the European Commission on Wednesday signal progress in strengthening Europe’s business environment. The Clean Industrial Deal acknowledges the urgent need to lower energy costs, accelerate permitting, increase demand for low-carbon and circular products, and strengthen global engagement. But nine months after the European Elections, "we urgently need swifter, more impactful action to avoid these challenges becoming the new reality for businesses," our DG Markus J. Beyrer commented.

The 1st EU Omnibus is a milestone in reducing unnecessary reporting and regulatory burdens, helping companies contribute more effectively to the EU’s sustainability goals while preserving competitiveness. However, while the direction is right, delivery will be crucial. Challenges remain – for example, a harmonised approach to Due Diligence is key to avoid fragmentation. All co-legislators must be willing to play their part in addressing these issues. We will continue engaging with policymakers to turn ambition into concrete solutions.

Read our reactions: Clean Industrial Deal | Omnibus

The landscape of EU China relations has undergone significant changes in recent years. Join us on 21 March to discuss the challenges and a path forward with:
🔹 Markus J. Beyrer, Director General, BuisnessEurope
🔹 Maria Martin-Prat, Deputy Director-General, DG TRADE, European Commission
🔹 Mikko Huotari, Executive Director of Mercator Institute of China Studies (MERICS)

Did you know?

The European Chemical Industry Council (Cefic) highlighted this data at a high-level meeting in Antwerp on 26 February, where Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and 400 business leaders gathered to discuss the newly published Clean Industrial Deal.