The N-VA’s European delegation calls for a revision of Europe’s industrial policy

In response to the worrying situation in European industry, N-VA MEPs Johan Van Overtveldt and Kris Van Dijck are calling for an urgent revision of current industrial policy: “The crisis in our automotive sector is the canary in the coal mine. Europe’s entire manufacturing industry, an indispensable pillar of our prosperity, is in danger of being severely challenged.”

The European Union’s industry sector is not doing well, with layoffs, company closures and large companies announcing that they no longer want to invest in Europe. High energy costs and an overload of regulations are often cited as the main causes. “Stop the interventionist industrial plans that are financed with even more debt. Create a framework that fosters innovation and private investment,” responds Johan Van Overtveldt, head of the N-VA delegation in the European Parliament.

Stronger competitive position

To strengthen the competitive position of European industry, the N-VA delegation is calling for a simplification of regulations, among other things. “The current regulatory environment is too complex and is not consistent with market standards. We must reduce the regulatory burden and the associated reporting obligations,” says Kris Van Dijck, who is also a member of the Committee on Industry, Research and Energy (ITRE). “That doesn’t cost anything; on the contrary, it creates room for growth.”

Modified Green Deal

In addition, the N-VA MEPs are calling for sensible modification of the Green Deal. “It is essential to keep a closer watch on the socio-economic reality. Sustainability is important, but must be feasible for our industry sector,” says Van Overtveldt.

The N-VA is also calling for a standard of feasibility and affordability in legislation both for citizens and for companies, whereby nuclear energy offers substantial opportunities. “In addition to our existing nuclear park, new developments offer prospects for sustainability, affordability and security. We have lost years; it is time to seize this opportunity,” stresses Kris Van Dijck.

A strong internal market

To ensure a strong internal market, it is also important to reinforce it in the areas of transport, energy and services. “We must ensure a level playing field within the internal market and stop easing restrictions on state aid, which is disastrous for smaller countries.”

Chinese competition

Finally, the N-VA draws attention to unfair competition from China. For example, import tariffs can be a useful tool, but imposing strict quality and safety standards on imported products is at least as important. “This is the only way we can create a level playing field for our European companies,” Van Overtveldt concludes.

With these proposals, the N-VA hopes to lay the foundations for a strong, innovative and future-proof European industry sector that is in the interest of prosperity in the European Union and its Member States.