Only a political shift in Brussels and The Hague can halt the decimation of the European industry. Following Germany and France, there's a need for compensation for high energy prices, and governments must cease inventing additional regulations. This is the position of the business organisation VNO. 'No more rules can be added,' says CEO Ingrid Thijssen, who is also the vice-chair of the umbrella organisation BusinessEurope, in an interview with AD.
Ingrid Thijssen has been the chair of the business organization VNO-NCW since September 15, 2020. PHOTO TNO
Thijssen expresses her concerns about the new European Commission taking power after the June elections. She underscores the necessity to not introduce any new regulations or for extra administrative burdens on top of Brussels' plans.
Thijssen points to high energy prices and significant regulatory pressure as reasons for the departure of numerous industrial companies from Europe. Nedcar, a Dutch car factory, closed its doors, while investors are also leaving Germany and steel mills in Wales and Italy are ending their operations. European industrial production is shrinking.
The challenges in the industry are not limited to the Netherlands; Germany also faces difficulties, with German companies like Volkswagen, Mercedes, and BASF opting to build new factories primarily in the US and China.
The high energy prices in Europe, compared to the US and China, are one of the main issues, along with the rising costs due to sustainability requirements. European companies struggle to compete on the global market, while more favourable conditions are offered elsewhere. This has led to an alarming situation for the European industry and the jobs involved, as well as for the future prosperity of Europe.
It's clear that change is needed, but whether Europe will be able to turn the tide will depend on the actions of the new European Commission and a new cabinet. Thijssen and other stakeholders advocate for a simpler system for green subsidies and less regulatory pressure to support and preserve the European industry.
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Source: AD