A meeting of the EU Council's Antici Group (Simplification) scheduled for 2 July 2026 will focus on the Presidency's work programme, a Commission update on the simplification agenda, and a detailed exchange on digitalising energy and tyre labelling rules. The meeting, set for 10:00 in the Justus Lipsius building in Brussels, will be held in a 1+1 format, according to a notice of meeting and provisional agenda published on 26 June 2026.
The agenda includes a presentation from the Presidency on its work programme, followed by an update from the European Commission on simplification efforts, including the Simplification Platform. The main substantive item is a presentation by the Commission and an exchange of views on Omnibus XII: Energy products, which proposes amendments to Regulations (EU) 2017/1369 and (EU) 2020/740 to simplify and better use digital options for energy and tyre labelling. The relevant document is ST 11199/26 + ADD 1-4.
The meeting is a preparatory step for the Council's work on simplification, a priority of the current Presidency. The discussion on digital labelling aims to reduce administrative burdens and improve consumer access to product information, potentially impacting manufacturers, retailers, and consumers. No prior coverage of this specific meeting exists in recent months.
Policy orientations and trade-offs The proposed Omnibus XII regulation seeks to modernise energy labelling by allowing digital labels as an alternative to physical stickers, reducing paper waste and compliance costs. However, concerns may arise about digital exclusion for consumers without internet access or digital literacy, and about the reliability of digital platforms. The trade-off is between efficiency gains and ensuring all consumers can access essential product information.
Stakeholder impact - EU producers and distributors: Moderate positive impact from reduced labelling costs and simplified compliance, but may face initial investment in digital systems. - EU consumers: Mixed impact – easier access to detailed product information online, but risk of exclusion for those without digital means. - National authorities: Moderate impact from new enforcement challenges related to digital labels and data verification. - Environmental NGOs: Positive impact from reduced paper use and potential for more dynamic information updates.
Institutional follow-up The Antici Group's exchange of views will feed into the Council's preparatory bodies. The Commission's proposal will then proceed through the ordinary legislative procedure, requiring approval by the European Parliament and the Council. The next steps include further technical discussions and possible adoption of a general approach by the Council.