Upgraded Antwerp Declaration website open for co signing

The 'The Antwerp Declaration for a European Industrial Deal' was presented on 20 February 2024 by 73 industry leaders spanning almost 20 industrial sectors to Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. The signatories of the declaration express their gratitude to the Belgian Presidency of the Council of the EU and Prime Minister Alexander De Croo for their leadership and efforts. They look forward to continued cooperation and collaboration with the upcoming Hungarian Council Presidency.

BACKGROUND:

During a European Industry Summit held on the site of BASF in Antwerp, leaders from industry sectors addressed through the Declaration the critical importance of clarity, predictability, and confidence in Europe's industrial policy.

To meet climate neutrality by 2050 and the recently communicated 2040 target, the declaration outlines 10 concrete actions necessary to make Europe competitive, resilient, and sustainable.

Through a comprehensive action plan that integrates the EU Industrial Deal into the broader European Strategic Agenda 2024-2029, signatories confirm the necessity for an Open Strategic Autonomy to strengthen the resilience of Europe's industry sector in an ever-changing geopolitical landscape.

The proposal also highlights the need to increase the EU's raw materials security through scaling up domestic mining, sustainable processing and recycling capacity for crucial raw materials. Boosting renewable carbon and circular carbon feedstocks, as well as securing free trade agreements or other types of agreements to open up new markets and boost exports is considered fundamental.

As a result, the declaration calls for "a new spirit of law-making," preventing regulatory measures that impede the Green Deal's policy goals from being implemented. These measures include encouraging the development of cutting-edge science, technological innovation, and cooperative policies that prioritise transparency and workable solutions while welcoming novel ideas like regulatory playgrounds.

FEFAC is among the signatories of the Declaration and invites other companies, organisations and associations to co-sign it.

Visit the newly upgraded Antwerp Declaration website and read more about the 10 action points of the Antwerp Declaration proposal to Member State Governments, the next European Commission and Parliament.