European and national industry associations are making a united call to prevent the risk of de-industrialisation on the continent by relaunching Europe’s competitiveness, according to EUROPEN - the European Organisation for Packaging and the Environment.
"The EU enters a new policy cycle at a challenging time, with technology and geopolitics acting as global disruptors, adding pressure to an already difficult economic situation," said the organisation. "Now is the time to start building a strategic plan that unlocks the Single Market’s full potential and establishes a regulatory environment for EU industry to remain globally competitive."
The organisation defined five priorities for Europe's industry
Firstly, it aims to reposition Europe as a global trade leader: "The success of Europe’s trade policy is connected to a smart regulatory environment that consolidates our Single Market, allowing for deeper economic integration and creating a platform for EU companies to remain competitive beyond EU borders."
Its second aim is to encourage a horizontal approach to the EU Single Market and competitiveness, as these are essential for Europe's ability to succeed during the green and digital transition.
EUROPEN also emphasised the need for a joined-up strategy to boost the resilience of the value chain, and to protect jobs and consumers.
Co-operation between industry and public authorities needs to be much tighter to fill the innovation gap between the EU and global competitors, added the organisation.
Finally, it highlighted a need to nurture talents and skills: "Skill shortage risks jeopardising Europe’s ability to go green and digital. The EU must implement policies that bolster vocational training and strengthen education, reskilling and upskilling the working population," it said.
