Today, the European Commission introduced a “Simple Market Package” aimed at simplifying business operations across Europe while maintaining social and environmental standards. Executive Vice-President Séjourné emphasized the importance of European businesses prioritizing intra-European partnerships in light of current geopolitical and commercial contexts.
Séjourné stated, “L’idée est simple: aujourd’hui, les entreprises s’internationalisent avant de s’européaniser. Or dans le contexte géopolitique et commercial que nous connaissons, ce n’est plus possible.” He highlighted the significance of the single market as a competitive factor controlled by Europe itself.
The new strategy involves sector-specific approaches to remove barriers that hinder businesses from expanding within Europe. Séjourné noted, “C’est le moment de le faire! Face à l’incertitude actuelle, le marché unique est évidemment le meilleur refuge pour l’économie européenne.”
The package focuses on addressing ten primary barriers faced by businesses, enhancing services with significant economic impact, and simplifying regulations for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The initiative also aims to make consumer information more accessible through digital means like QR codes.
Séjourné outlined several examples of these barriers, such as the complex recognition of professions across Europe. He pointed out that only seven out of 5700 regulated professions are harmonized at the European level. To address this, he proposed accelerating and digitalizing qualification recognition processes.
Another example is labeling inconsistencies across countries which complicate recycling instructions for consumers. The proposal includes harmonizing labeling and recycling rules to create a cohesive secondary market in Europe.
The strategy also introduces a 28th regime—a simplified European framework to help businesses expand within the single market—expected to be proposed in early 2026. This would streamline administrative processes for companies entering multiple EU countries.
Further steps include digitizing market operations by eliminating paperwork and establishing standards for products like heat pumps and batteries to expedite cross-border business activities.
Séjourné concluded by announcing a new definition for small midcaps—companies with fewer than 750 employees—to provide tailored support based on their size and status. He reassured SMEs that their specific needs remain a priority.
With this package, the Commission aims to foster a predictable, fair, fluid, and integrated business environment in Europe while reinvigorating the single market’s simplicity and strength.
