As announced by President Ursula von der Leyen to the European Parliament on November 27, 2024, the European Commission is launching a Strategic Dialogue with the European automotive industry, social partners and other key stakeholders on 30 January. This initiative underscores the Commission's commitment to safeguarding the future of a sector vital to European prosperity, while at the same time advancing its climate goals and broader societal objectives.
The Commission recognizes the urgent need for action to protect the European automotive industry and give it a future within the European Union. Under the leadership of President von der Leyen, the Strategic Dialogue aims to engage industry players, social partners, and stakeholders to collaboratively understand challenges, develop solutions, and take concrete action. Within the Commission, Commissioner Tzitzikostas has been tasked with developing an action plan for the sector, which will benefit from these discussions.
The Strategic Dialogue will be chaired by President von der Leyen and consist of regular meetings bringing together industry representatives (manufacturers, suppliers), social partners, Commissionersand other stakeholders, including from civil society. Thematic working groups will then come forward with detailed proposals. Broader consultations with other stakeholders across the industry as well as other parts of the automotive value chain, will also be conducted. The Council and European Parliament will be closely involved throughout the process.
Key discussion points will include innovation, clean transition and decarbonisation, competitiveness and resilience, trade relations and international 'level playing field', and regulatory streamlining and process optimization. Further information can be found in the annexed Concept Note that will guide the discussions in the Strategic Dialogue.
The European Commission is committed to working with all stakeholders to ensure the long-term competitiveness, sustainability, and resilience of the European automotive industry. The Strategic Dialogue is a crucial step towards achieving this goal.
Background
The automotive industry, a cornerstone of the European economy, employs over 13 million people and contributes approximately 7% to the EU's GDP. However, this critical industry is facing a period of significant transformation, driven by digitalization, decarbonization, increased competition, and a changing geopolitical landscape.
These factors are challenging the established strengths of European carmakers. To ensure the industry's future competitiveness, the European Commission is launching a Strategic Dialogue. This initiative aims to collaboratively develop and implement solutions to maintain the industry's global standing.
