On Friday 20 September, a group of 20 Member States led by Luxembourg and the Czech Republic published a non-paper detailing the priorities they believe should be included in the future strategy for the Single Market that the European Commission is due to present by June 2025. These countries are calling on the Commission to improve the conditions for doing business within the EU as a matter of priority.
Unsurprisingly, simplification and harmonisation of European rules are among the demands of the signatories, who are also calling for maximum mutual recognition between Member States to reduce cross-border obstacles. The rules in this area are still poorly applied across the continent, particularly in the area of professional qualifications.
Other barriers are not yet covered by European legislation. This is the case with territorial supply constraints, which should be banned, according to Luxembourg’s minister of the Economy, SMEs and Energy, Lex Delles. These are cases where manufacturers refuse to supply customers in another Member State and refer them to a local reseller who charges higher prices. “By prohibiting such practices, we would show businesses and consumers that the EU can deliver concrete results for them”, says Lex Delles.
Back in May, eight Member States called on the Commission to take action against these practices (see EUROPE 13416/2).
In terms of action, the 20 Member States are calling for a roadmap dedicated to the services sector, which is still encountering many difficulties in the Single Market. This should include a timetable and clear milestones.
In addition, facilitating cross-border work for businesses inevitably requires better interconnection of territories and digitalisation, according to the non-paper. Specific digital tools are therefore needed to assist companies.
See the document: https://aeur.eu/f/din (Original version in French by Léa Marchal)