Whether it’s the ‘Letta’ report, the conclusions of the last European Council or the priorities of the political groups in the European Parliament for the next mandate, particular attention is paid to SMEs. Elected representatives and candidates on all sides of the political divide agree that these companies need to be supported if they are to operate easily in the single market and export outside the EU. With just a few days to go before the European elections, SME envoys are reiterating their demands.
Just like their larger peers with more capital, SMEs are looking for regulatory simplicity. This message has gained in popularity in recent years, and the European Commission has committed itself to reducing the reporting obligations for companies by 25% by 2023. However, they are struggling to see the results.
In order to take into account SMEs’ needs, the systematic use of ‘SME Tests’ should be introduced when new legislation is drawn up, according to the SMEunited representative, as well as the French Confederation of SMEs. To take it a step further, these organisations are calling for the appointment of a European Commissioner with specific responsibility for advocating for SMEs.
Easy access to finance is also a major issue, according to SMEs. They would like to be able to rely on alternative forms of financing such as lending platforms, venture capital or bond markets. This also involves State guarantees, which SMEunited believes are the most effective form of public support for SMEs.
What’s more, fair competition, a stronger internal market and access to labour are also priorities for SMEs. (Original version in French by Léa Marchal)