Italy’s enterprises minister Adolfo Urso and Germany’s vice-chancellor Robert Habeck emphasised the need to strengthen the EU’s industrial base in response to “geostrategic challenges”, they added at a ministerial forum in Berlin. The “EU must act rapidly to reverse the ongoing industrial decline, which is at risk of deepening overDuring a ministerial forum in Berlin, Italy’s enterprises minister Adolfo Urso and Germany’s vice-chancellor Robert Habeck stressed the importance of strengthening the EU’s industrial base in response to “geostrategic challenges”. They also highlighted the urgent need for the EU to take action to reverse the current decline in the industry, which is at risk of worsening in the coming year due to crises in the automotive and steel sectors.
According to Urso, the EU must act quickly to unleash the full potential of the single market and reduce unnecessary bureaucracy in order to promote future and green technologies. Habeck echoed this sentiment, stating that the EU must create the right framework conditions to support these technologies.
The ministers also emphasized the necessity of a “realistic revision” of the carbon border adjustment mechanism. This mechanism is crucial in ensuring a level playing field for European industries and protecting them from unfair competition from countries with lower environmental standards.
Last week, business leaders from Italy, Germany, and France called on EU institutions and member states to take swift action to strengthen Europe’s industrial base, innovation, and strategic autonomy. They stressed the importance of supporting all low-carbon technologies, including nuclear, renewables, and hydrogen, and called for a revision of EU regulations to streamline bureaucracy.
In conclusion, it is imperative for the EU to take decisive action to support its industrial base and promote future and green technologies. This will not only help to address current challenges but also ensure a sustainable and competitive future for European industries.