Setting the stage for Europe’s economic future, President Ursula von der Leyen addressed leading German business and industry associations in Berlin on September 18, 2025. Her speech centred on ramping up Europe's economic strength through a multi-faceted competitiveness agenda.
Concrete Policy Initiatives Von der Leyen unveiled specific programs and figures, including a €400 billion competitiveness fund within the Commission’s proposed seven-year budget. She detailed six simplification packages—dubbed "omnibuses"—aimed at cutting red tape to save over €8 billion annually, with a particular focus on easing burdens on SMEs, including the introduction of a new "Small Mid-Caps" category. The plan also calls for a ‘Made in Europe’ criterion in public procurement and streamlines internal market regulations such as professional qualification recognition and product labelling harmonisation.
Energy and Industry Competitiveness On energy, von der Leyen emphasized reducing reliance on volatile global markets through expansion of renewables and nuclear energy, while respecting Member States’ choices on energy mix. She promoted increased investment in cross-border energy infrastructure to enhance distribution and reduce costs. The speech also focused on Europe's position in global cleantech markets and the importance of a circular economy, especially for critical raw materials like graphite.
Trade and Global Market Access Von der Leyen advocated for open markets and underscored ongoing trade agreements with major partners including Mercosur, Mexico, and Indonesia, aimed at securing critical raw materials and reducing tariffs. She urged swift ratification by Member States to capitalise on these opportunities.
Political and Economic Cleavages The speech navigates between increasing EU-level strategic investment while maintaining Member States’ sovereignty over energy choices, stressing a balance between competitiveness and fair global competition. The focus on cutting regulation contrasts with calls for stronger internal market harmonisation, reflecting tensions between reducing administrative burdens and ensuring uniform standards.
Stakeholder Impact EU producers and SMEs stand to benefit from reduced compliance costs and enhanced market access. EU consumers may see benefits in product availability and price stability, albeit with energy infrastructure investments potentially influencing energy prices. National authorities face pressure to expedite legislation and to curb "gold-plating" practices. EU taxpayers might bear the fiscal responsibility of the new competitiveness fund.
President von der Leyen’s speech signals an assertive approach to boosting European industry through concrete financial commitments, regulatory reforms, and trade expansion, emphasizing collaboration across EU institutions and Member States as imperative for success.
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