One Europe and One Market Roadmap – a commitment to strengthen Europe’s competitiveness

As part of the event “One Europe, One Market Roadmap – a commitment to strengthen Europe’s competitiveness”, the Wirtschaftsrat Brussels welcomed Marion Walsmann MEP for an exchange on the future of the European Single Market, Europe’s competitiveness and the need for a more practical regulatory framework

(Foto by Eric Berghen)

Corinna Grajetzky, Chairwoman of the Wirtschaftsrat Brussels, welcomed the participants and underlined the importance of strengthening Europe’s economic base at a time of growing geopolitical and economic pressure. Prosperity, sovereignty and Europe’s ability to act globally depend on a strong and competitive economy.

(Foto by Eric Berghen)

In her remarks, Marion Walsmann stressed that the One Europe, One Market Roadmap addresses many of the right priorities. However, she also made clear that political announcements and roadmaps must now be translated into concrete implementation. Fixed deadlines until the end of 2027 can help create momentum, but they will only be effective if Member States and EU institutions work together to remove barriers in practice.

A central topic of the discussion, moderated by Dr Detlef Fechtner, Headreporter of the Boersen-Zeitung was the gap between European simplification efforts and the reality experienced by companies. While the Omnibus initiatives and the focus on better regulation were seen as important steps, participants stressed that many businesses continue to face excessive bureaucracy, complex reporting requirements and additional burdens through national gold-plating.

The discussion also focused on harmonisation and mutual recognition within the Single Market. Participants agreed that common European rules can reduce fragmentation, but only if they remain practical and proportionate, especially for SMEs. Harmonisation should not create new complexity, but help companies operate more easily across borders.

(Foto by Eric Berghen)

Another key issue was digitalisation, including the role of the European Business Wallet, data regulation, artificial intelligence and cybersecurity. The exchange highlighted the need for a regulatory framework that enables innovation, reduces compliance costs and strengthens Europe’s technological sovereignty without overburdening companies.

The participants also discussed Europe’s wider competitiveness agenda, including sustainable finance, industrial policy, trade policy, energy and the role of Member States in implementing European rules. A recurring theme was that Europe needs more trust — between Member States, between policymakers and businesses, and in the ability of market-based solutions to deliver results.

(Foto by Eric Berghen)

Overall, the event made clear that the One Europe, One Market Roadmap can become an important instrument for strengthening Europe’s competitiveness. Its success will depend on whether the EU and its Member States move beyond declarations of intent and deliver tangible improvements for companies, innovation and growth across the Single Market.