FACE/Politico event: Does Europe Need a New Industrial Strategy?

2019 is the year of change for Europe. Citizens will elect their new representatives at the European Parliament and a new Commission will set the agenda for the next five years. From the looming threat of a no-deal Brexit to a protectionist U.S. president and wobbles in the global economy, the trade relationships are at a breaking point.

Europe also faces internal divisions. France and Germany have called for a common industrial strategy to protect national champions against threats from China and the U.S and soften EU merger rules. But Italy’s recent move to the China’s One Belt, One Road Initiative could be detrimental to the plan.

Key questions to be addressed include:

• 5 years after: what are the priorities of the current Commission that will remain? What are the challenges of the next Commission?
• Is European competition law impeding the creation of European champions? Does it create the right environment for its small and medium enterprises to compete in the global economy?
• How is the future of trade relationships going to look like? What does it mean for the industry and consumers?
• Will the next European Parliament be less supportive of trade deals? What compromises will have to be found?
• How trade and industrial policies can support Europe’s sustainability goals? Does Europe need a CO2 border tax?

This POLITICO event will convene a spectrum of European policymakers, business leaders, and society watchdogs to discuss what’s at stake for Europe’s industry, the challenges and opportunities for the five years ahead.

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For more information, please contact us by email at events@politico.eu.