The Croatian Presidency of the EU Council will focus on two major tasks over the next 6 months, according to its programme: the proper implementation of the rules of the single market and the negotiations on long-term industrial strategy.
Thus, on strengthening the single market, the Croatian Presidency intends to contribute to the discussions on the establishment of a long-term action plan for better implementation and application of the rules of the single market.
It also hopes to deepen the analysis of existing regulatory and non-regulatory barriers, particularly in the area of services - an area which is particularly pending at present in view of Member States’ lack of appetite in this area (see EUROPE 12261/4) - in order to “fully” implement the Services Directive. The Croatian Presidency intends to present conclusions on Better Regulation with an objective of reducing regulatory costs for businesses.
SMEs will have a prominent place in the coming months. On this point, the Presidency intends to focus on the development of a strategic framework based on the “Think Small First” principle, but also on the acquisition of entrepreneurial skills. Finally, it will direct its action towards a better use of intellectual property systems in enterprises.
The digital transition will not be neglected either: the Presidency will launch a reflection on the automation and digitisation of enterprises and business entities, supporting the Commission's work in this area, also in connection with the development of the EU's long-term industrial strategy.
Industrial strategy
It is precisely the industrial strategy, long awaited by the Member States (see EUROPE 12220/3), that will focus the action of the Croatian Presidency. The Presidency will focus on the possible synergies between the said industrial policy, the Green Deal and the digital transformation of European industry.
The European Commission intends to present a strategy for SMEs and the industrial strategy at the beginning of March, according to our information. (Original version in French by Pascal Hansens)