From regulations to results: The EU must strengthen industry, competitiveness, and security

The European Parliament recently debated the first 100 days of the new European Commission—an important moment for reflection, but above all, for urgency, according to the N-VA delegation.

Challenges are mounting: war at Europe’s borders, disruptions in international trade, and a rapidly evolving technological race. In response, the N-VA calls for a balanced course that does not lose sight of economic realities.

A strong economy as the foundation for security

Johan Van Overtveldt, leader of the N-VA delegation in the European Parliament and chair of the Budget Committee, highlighted the consequences of an overly dogmatic green agenda:

“For years, we have been paralyzed by policies that ignored economic realities. We must sharpen Europe’s competitive edge. A strong economy is not an end in itself, but a prerequisite for prosperity and security. We need to reduce our dependence on external powers without resorting to isolationism. This requires a fundamental shift in direction.”

Van Overtveldt draws a direct link between economic Competitiveness The extent to which companies in one country can compete with similar companies in another country. A law came into force in Belgium in 1996 to monitor competitiveness. This stipulates that Belgian salaries may not evolve faster than the average of those in the three neighbouring countries. The Central Economic Council (CEC) performs an annual measurement to see if the objectives have been obtained. competitiveness and the urgent need to strengthen Europe’s defense capabilities. “To attract private investment into our defense industry, the EU must improve its economic competitiveness. Without a strong economy, building a credible defense is simply not possible.”

He also stressed the need for effective coordination between member states: “This is where the European Commission has a crucial role to play. Without proper alignment between defense capacity needs and member state initiatives, this catch-up operation risks becoming a wasted effort.”

Clean Industrial Deal: boosting competitiveness and lowering energy prices

To strengthen European industry and protect citizens’ purchasing power, the N-VA supports the Clean Industrial Deal (CID)—an initiative aimed at balancing the green transition with fundamental economic reforms.

Kris Van Dijck, member of the Industry and Energy Committee (ITRE), emphasized the importance of affordable and stable energy sources. “To safeguard the competitiveness of European industry, energy prices must come down, and energy supply must be secured. Nuclear energy can play a key role in achieving this. Member states must retain the freedom to determine their energy mix and invest heavily in this carbon-free energy source.”

Van Dijck also called for a structural simplification of EU regulations. “The Omnibus Regulation, designed to simplify the regulatory framework, can help strengthen Europe’s industrial competitiveness in the fierce economic battle with China and the U.S. The current regulatory climate is overly complex and hinders our businesses on the international stage. The EU should support entrepreneurs instead of suffocating them with unnecessary rules. Only then can businesses do what they do best: innovate, grow, and create prosperity.”

A pragmatic course for Europe's future

“The coming months will be decisive—for both Europe’s economic foundation and its defense capabilities,” Van Overtveldt concluded. “The EU must return to a pragmatic course that prioritizes competitiveness, energy security, and defense readiness.”