Within the framework of the Informal Competitiveness Council (COMPET) held in Copenhagen, Spain, in collaboration with France, Czech Republic, Italy, Luxembourg, Poland, Slovakia, Austria, Hungary and Greece, has signed a joint declaration of great relevance. This agreement seeks to protect and strengthen the European electro-intensive industry, a strategic pillar for the continent's economy.
During the meeting, the ministers of the signatory countries highlighted the vital importance of the electro-intensive sector, which covers industries that are key to European value chains, such as steel, non-ferrous metal production, chemicals, cement, and other energy-intensive sectors. It was highlighted that these industries are facing considerable challenges, including high energy costs and a fierce global competition.
In addition to the energy challenges, the sector suffers from the global excess capacity and current trade tensions, factors that threaten to further impact European production. The statement specifically urges the European Commission to take concrete trade measures to safeguard steel production in Europe, a particularly vulnerable sector.
Spain will chair the next meeting of the Alliance to strengthen the European electro-intensive industry, which will be held within the framework of the next EU Competitiveness Council, scheduled for the end of next September.
Another crucial point addressed is the need to significant investments for decarbonization of these industries. Achieving the goal of net-zero emissions by 2050 requires more sustainable technologies and a firm commitment to the ecological transition.
In view of this situation, the ministers agreed to the urgency of community intervention and formalized a Alliance for the future of Europe's energy-intensive industries. Between key measures that this declaration contemplates are:
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El strong support for industrial decarbonization.
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guarantee a access to affordable energy for these industries.
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La Effective implementation of the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM).
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El promoting public procurement of green industrial products.
The members of this Alliance have reaffirmed their commitment to collaborate closely to present common perspectives on these priorities, with the aim of accelerate European initiatives in the context of the Pact for a Clean Industry.
By signing this declaration, the participating States undertake to exchange information on the evolution of the commercial situation and to coordinate the necessary measures to protect the European electro-intensive industry in strategic industrial sectors.
Ultimately, the members of this Alliance seek protect Europe's industrial future, secure a just transition towards a decarbonized and sustainable economy, and position the continent as leader in the global industrial renaissance. Spain will also chair the next meeting of this Alliance within the framework of the EU Competitiveness Council, scheduled for the end of September, which underlines its proactive role in this vital initiative.
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