Italy and France Team Up to Push for EU Industrial Policy Reform
February 11, 2025
Italy and France have joined forces to call for a comprehensive reform of the European Union’s industrial policy. In a joint statement released on Friday, Italian Minister of Economic Development Adolfo Urso and French Minister of Economy, Finance, and Industrial and Digital Sovereignty Bruno Le Maire outlined their shared vision for a more competitive and sustainable European economy.
“We are at a critical juncture for the future of European industry,” said Urso. “The geopolitical landscape has shifted, and we need to adapt our industrial policies to meet the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.”
Le Maire echoed Urso’s sentiments, emphasizing the importance of fostering innovation and strategic autonomy within the EU. “We cannot rely on imports for key technologies and products,” he said. “We need to invest in our own industries and create a level playing field for European companies.”
The joint statement highlights several key areas where reform is needed, including:
- Increased funding for research and development (R&D): Urso and Le Maire called for a substantial increase in EU funding for R&D, particularly in areas such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and renewable energy.
- Support for strategic sectors: The ministers identified several sectors that are critical to European competitiveness, including microelectronics, semiconductors, batteries, and aerospace. They proposed targeted investments and incentives to support these sectors.
- Simplification of regulations: Urso and Le Maire noted that the current regulatory framework for industry in the EU is often complex and burdensome. They called for a more streamlined and predictable regulatory environment to encourage investment and innovation.
- Enhanced coordination between member states: The ministers emphasized the need for closer cooperation between EU member states to avoid overlaps and ensure that industrial policies are aligned at the European level.
The joint statement will be presented to the European Commission for consideration. The Commission is expected to release a proposal for a revised industrial policy strategy later this year.
The initiative by Italy and France has been welcomed by industry leaders and experts. Luigi Sbarra, President of the Italian Confederation of Workers (CISL), said that “this is a bold and necessary step to ensure that Europe remains a global industrial powerhouse.”
“The reform of EU industrial policy is long overdue,” said Erik Juergens, Director of the European Policy Center. “Italy and France have taken the lead in recognizing the urgent need for action.”
The call for industrial policy reform comes at a time when the European Union is facing mounting economic challenges, including rising inflation, supply chain disruptions, and geopolitical tensions. By investing in key sectors, fostering innovation, and creating a more supportive regulatory environment, Italy and France aim to strengthen the resilience and competitiveness of European industry in the years to come.
Urso-Ferracci: Italia e Francia insieme per riformare la politica industriale UE
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