EU leaders agree on a roadmap to boost competitiveness and simplify the single market

 

La European Union has marked a turning point in its economic strategy following the informal meeting held in Alden BiesenAt this meeting, European leaders discussed in depth how to deepen the single market, reduce external dependencies and enhance global competitiveness in a complex and changing geoeconomic context.

 

Under the premise that economic growth is essential for prosperity and the maintenance of the European social model, the Presidente del Consejo Europeo, António CostaHe emphasized that the priority is clear: "We have a clear priority: to strengthen economic growth in Europe. This is essential for our prosperity, for creating quality jobs, and for sustaining our socioeconomic model.".

 

Towards a total single market: The "28th regime"

 

One of the key points of the meeting was the working session with Enrico Lettawhere the challenge of transitioning from an incomplete market to the concept of was accepted "One Europe, one market"Leaders agree that this transformation is urgent and must be implemented between 2026 and 2027.

 

To achieve this, it has been agreed to move forward with the creation of a "28th regime"This framework would allow companies in the UE operate without borders under a single set of corporate rulesThis would drastically reduce administrative burdens and facilitate access to transnational financing.

 

Strategic consolidation and investment

 

The summit has also served to open the door to business consolidation in strategic sectors, specifically citing the telecommunicationsThe goal is to reach the necessary levels of investment and innovation to compete globally. In this regard, it has been emphasized that investments must be part of a "social contract" and that reviewing merger guidelines will play a crucial role.

 

Regarding capital raising, it has been agreed to accelerate the pooling of savings and investments to mobilize private capital, while the future of EU long-term budget (Multiannual Financial Framework) will be decisive for public investments.

 

Focus Area	Key Measures and Sectors
Implementation Schedule	Urgent implementation in 2026 and 2027
Technology Sectors	Defense, Space, Clean Tech, Quantum, AI and Payment Systems
Regulatory Objective	Ambitious simplification and creation of the "28th corporate regime"
International Trade Policy	Pragmatic trade openness and diversification strategy

 

Strategic autonomy and "European Preference"

 

The analysis of economic dependencies has led leaders to propose a diversification strategy to mitigate risks. There is broad consensus on the strategic importance of protecting and strengthening sectors such as... defense, the Artificial Intelligence and Clean technologies.

 

Furthermore, the concept of "European preference"The leaders agree to apply this criterion in selected sectors, following a thorough analysis that identifies where it is strictly necessary and useful to safeguard the region's interests.

 

• Promotion of innovation in quantum and space technologies.
• Pragmatic solutions to reduce electricity prices industrial.
• unanimous support for a open trade policy and pragmatic.

 

The conclusions of this informal meeting will be revisited at the next meeting of the Consejo Europeo in March, where it is expected that Comisión Europea Present the detailed roadmap for the "One Europe, One Market" project.

 

Key points and frequently asked questions about Competitiveness in the EU

1. What is the "28th regime" proposed by the EU?

It is a unique regulatory framework designed to enable European companies to operate in all Member States under the same corporate rules, removing barriers from national legislation and facilitating their growth and financing.

2. In which sectors will the consolidation of companies be allowed?

Leaders have identified strategic sectors such as telecommunicationswhere consolidation is necessary to foster innovation and attract the large volumes of investment required.

3. What is the timeframe for these single market reforms?

El Presidente del Consejo Europeo, António CostaHe emphasized that these market simplification and unification measures are urgent and must be implemented as a priority during the coming years. 2026 and 2027.