news
February 2014
Position
Event
Opportunity
Info
7th EU-Brazil Business Summit
In the coming years, investments in innovation and trade will be the engines of world economic
growth. Both Brazil and the European Union need to embrace globalisation as a source for jobs
and welfare creation. Although the economic contexts are different, they are still complementary:
Brazil has low unemployment rates but needs to ensure the long term competitiveness of its
enterprises, while unemployment in some of the EU’s countries has reached the highest level in
the last 20 years. EU´s future growth and competitiveness will heavily depend on its strategic
partnerships with key trading partners such as Brazil.
Ideally, EU-Brazil economic cooperation should be stimulated through the adoption of an EUMercosur free trade agreement. Yet, as these negotiations prove to be difficult, alternative
agreements need to be developed at bilateral level, between the EU and Brazil.
EUROCHAMBRES therefore welcomed the 2011 review of the EU-Brazil Strategic Partnership
that allowed for the identification of the most important issues in the bilateral relationship. The
2014 EU-Brazil Summit should aim at taking that partnership one step further: take firm
commitments to fight against protectionist tendencies, stimulate cooperation in the area of
innovation, promote SME internationalisation.
The Business Summit, co-organised by EUROCHAMBRES with Business Europe and CNI on 24
February, illustrates a joint commitment of the private sector to expand that partnership beyond
the current trade and investment flows, to exploit complementarity between both regions.
Contacts: Dominic Boucsein
Programme of the event
Attend the event
6th EU-Brazil Business Summit' joint declaration
International Relations and
Trade
East Invest: Investment opportunities in Armenia
On 5 March 2014, representatives from European investment agencies will discuss the investment
climate in Armenia with local peers and public authorities, in the framework of the latest East Invest
investment conference. European businesses will also have the opportunity to discuss investment
and commercial cooperation proposals with Armenian counterparts.
Contact: Birgit Arens Irina Tikhonova
Investment Conference
Project management training in the 6 Eastern Partnership (EaP) countries
From 29 January to 6 March, European Chamber experts will train executives from EaP business
support organisations in the six countries. The training will focus on project management with the
objective of improving the capacities of the beneficiaries to take part in European and international
donor projects.
Contact: Birgit Arens Irina Tikhonova
East Invest
EU-GCC Invest Seminar on SME Development and Family Business
Within the framework of the EU-GCC Invest project, EUROCHAMBRES is holding a seminar on
SME Development and Family Business, on 10 March in Doha, Qatar. The event is co-organised by
our partners in the Gulf, and will explore business trends and relations between both regions, as well
as provide exchange of knowledge and best practices on the central themes of the event.
Contact: Irma Orlandi
EU-GCC Invest
EBTC in the picture at policy events as green growth project
On 29 January, EUROCHAMBRES took part in the Public Policy Exchange conference in Brussels
on "Green Growth, Green Jobs". The European Business and Technology Centre (EBTC) project
was showcased as a concrete example of how Chambers deliver practical support to green SMEs
and contribute to creating growth and employment. A similar intervention is planned at the Energy
Access Business Matchmaking Event organised by the Alliance for Rural Electrification (ARE) on 19
February.
Contact: EBTC team in Brussels
Green Growth, Green Jobs event
ARE event
First issue of the MERCOSUR IPR SME Helpdesk newsletter released
MERCOSUR IPR Helpdesk is a European Commission initiative co-implemented by
EUROCHAMBRES. Its newsletter, with first release on 31 January, will have a bi-monthly periodicity
and the objective to inform European SMEs and Business Support Organisations about upcoming
Helpdesk activities and documentation. The multilingual Helpdesk (English, French, German,
Spanish and Portuguese) provides free of charge first-line assistance on IP and related issues, plus
training workshops for SMEs, on-line training materials, and a wide range of resources specially
designed for SMEs.
Contact: Paolo Baldan
MERCOSUR IPR SME
Helpdesk
Newsletter' subscription
Helpline website
MERCOSUR IPR Helpdesk survey of European SMEs
A survey will be conducted during February 2014 in order to assess the intellectual property (IP)
needs of European SMEs in Chile and MERCOSUR countries. The findings will be used to develop
a training plan and strategy addressed to European Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs)
and Business Support Organisations (BSO) by identifying topics and formats to be chosen, as well,
as identifying potential events in which MERCOSUR IP Helpdesk training can be offered. The
initiative aims to help European SMEs protect and enforce their IP rights in Chile and in
MERCOSUR countries.
Contact: Paolo Baldan
IP-related Needs Assessment
Agreements signed by Serbia and Kosovo Chambers
Under the auspices of EUROCHAMBRES, specific agreements of economic cooperation have been
signed by the Presidents of Serbia and Kosovo Chambers at the presence of the Prime Ministers of
the two countries and the EU High Representative, Baroness Catherine Ashton. Chambers have
demonstrated that the willingness to make contribution for the society through a better business
environment can be stronger than political constraints.
Contact: Arnaldo Abruzzini
Press Release 13 December
Pictures of the signing ceremony
Education, Training and Social
Affairs
New head of CEDEDOP visits EUROCHAMBRES
EUROCHAMBRES Secretary-General, Arnaldo Abruzzini, on 23 January welcomed James Calleja,
the recently appointed new Director of CEDEFOP, to Chamber House. CEDEFOP is the EU centre
for Vocational Education & Training (VET) and discussions revolved around the organisation's
relations with Chambers, given their strong involvement in the delivery and governance of VET in
several member states. Other issues tackled included the Youth Guarantee scheme and skills
forecasting.
Contact: Bettine Gola
Innovation: Trends and Tools
Energy 2030 & Industrial Policy: Unilateral climate action undermines
reindustrialisation efforts
EUROCHAMBRES criticised the incoherence between the communications on industrial policy and
energy 2030, presented by the European Commission on 22 January. Although Chambers are fully
committed to climate protection, but strongly argue that a new CO2 emissions reduction target must
reflect whether or not a binding international climate agreement is reached in 2015.
EUROCHAMBRES stressed that EU climate and energy policies must not undermine the efforts to
regain competitiveness in the global market. On 29 January, to discuss this topic,
EUROCHAMBRES organised a high-level policy dialogue "Towards a business-friendly EU climate
and energy policy" at European Parliament.
Contact: Michael Steurer
EUROCHAMBRES' position paper
Press Release 22 January
29 January high-level policy
dialogue
Economic Affairs
EUROCHAMBRES speaks at conference on Employee Share Ownership
On 30 January, EUROCHAMBRES spoke at a major event on Employee Share Ownership at the
European Commission, to indicate opportunities and challenges for businesses related to this form
of long-term investment. The conference is a part of an EU pilot project.
Contacts: Iwona Mertin
Employee Share Ownership
Conference
EUROCHAMBRES kicks off a new mediation project
Already involved in the awareness raising project "Go to Mediation!", EUROCHAMBRES and 8
Chambers will in March 2014 start a new project "Mediation meets Judges", together with Gemme,
the Association of Judges for Mediation. The objective of this new project is to set up court annexed
mediation schemes where judges will encourage parties to pursue mediation first.
Contact: Alexia Hengl Vincent Tilman
Go to Mediation!
EU Legislative Framework
Better policy-making priorities for the next EU term discussed at
EUROCHAMBRES conference
A panel of high level speakers from the three EU institutions and recognised regulatory reform
experts shared their views on how to improve the policy-making process for the next five years at a
major conference organised by EUROCHAMBRES. The conference "What Next for Better LawMaking in Europe? Getting the Quality and Quantity Right" took place on 30 January in the
European Parliament. Richard Weber, EUROCHAMBRES President, highlighted the importance to
economic recovery and growth of an efficient, evidence-based policy-making process and presented
the EUROCHAMBRES 10 policy-making priorities for the new term.
Contacts: Typhaine Beaupérin
Agenda of 30 January Conference
Press Release 30 January
Photo Gallery
EUROCHAMBRES 10 priorities on EU Better Policy-Making for the
2014-2019 Legislative Term
Electronic Identity and Trust services in trialogue
The proposal for Regulation on eID and eTrust services is now being discussed in trialogue with the
objective to find a compromise before the end of the legislature. EUROCHAMBRES and
ChamberSign remain deeply involved in order to bring technical and market knowledge into the
negotiation process.
Contact: Vincent Tilman
ChamberSign
EUROCHAMBRES 2014 European Parliament Election Business Breakfasts
On 22 January, EUROCHAMBRES started a series of breakfasts with MEPs dedicated to the
forthcoming European Parliament election. The first event was with Belgian ALDE MEP Philippe De
Backer, the EP rapporteur on access to finance for SMEs. Mr De Backer shared his views with
participants in particular on the financial crisis and the need to scrutinize legislation. In next Business
Breakfast, taking place on 12 February, German EPP MEP Daniel Caspary will present his views on
some of the key dossiers which impact global competitiveness of EU business, including TTIP
negotiations with US, Mercosur, SME Internationalisation and Access to Public Procurement.
Contact: Iwona Mertin
Business Breakfast concept
Pictures of previous Business Breakfasts
MEP Daniel Caspary
news
March 2014
Position
Event
Opportunity
Info
Mediation: a cornerstone of justice for growth
Unsolved disputes and lengthy judicial proceedings bear high costs for businesses.
Mediation is an alternative dispute resolution method that brings many benefits for businesses. A
2014 study estimates that if mediation would systematically precede any trial in civil disputes,
annual cost savings would be between €15 billion and €40 billion and annual time savings would
equate to 8 million years!
Chambers of Commerce and Industry are key actors in the European mediation arena.
EUROCHAMBRES believes mediation is an efficient way for companies, especially small and
medium sized enterprises, to deal with disputes as mediation allows parties to reflect on their
specific needs and interests, finding a win-win solution.
However, a very small percentage of commercial disputes in the European Union are currently
dealt with via mediation, so raising awareness among businesses and legal practitioners is
crucial. This is why EUROCHAMBRES has engaged, with other 18 partners, in two projects cofunded by the European Commission and focussing on mediation.
Building on the ongoing "Go to Mediation!" project to raise awareness about mediation in the
business community, EUROCHAMBRES launched a new project called "Mediation meets
Judges" at the beginning of March.
The new project, which involves 9 partners among Chambers and mediation centres along with
the European Association of Judges for Mediation (GEMME), aims to raise awareness of
mediation among judges in civil and commercial courts. It will also set up court annexed
mediation schemes where judges will encourage parties to go to mediation. These projects,
coupled with lobbying towards the EU institutions on facilitating and promoting cross-border
approaches, demonstrate the importance that EUROCHAMBRES and the Chamber network
attaches to putting mediation high on the EU policy agenda for the new legislative term.
Contacts: Vincent Tilman Alexia Hengl
Go to Mediation! Official website
2014 European Parliament study: “Reeboting the mediation Directive”
Announcements
IMPORTANT WARNING: European Chambers of Commerce Business to
Business Contacts Guide
EUROCHAMBRES has been informed that a company named “Blake” based in London (GB) is
currently contacting companies for the edition of a "European Chambers of Commerce Business to
Business Contacts Guide". A fee of 895£ is charged to companies willing to be registered in this
guide. You will find below a copy of standard email send by Blake to potential clients. Please note
that EUROCHAMBRES has nothing to do with Blake and is by no mean involved in the publication
of this so called "European Chambers of Commerce Business to Business contacts Guide" as
mentioned in the email. Could you please take all the necessary measures to provide your
constituency with this information.
Contact: Catherine Pham
Example of email received
International Relations and
Trade
Cyprus and Turkish Cypriot Chambers committed to back up the re-launch of
the negotiation process
On 5 March, under the auspices of EUROCHAMBRES, the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and
Industry and the Turkish Cypriot Chamber of Commerce being the leading representatives of
business and economic activity in Cyprus met in Brussels. Both Presidents have expressed in their
recent joint statement that a comprehensive solution of the Cyprus problem will bring considerable
benefits to all sectors of the economy and consequently enhance the welfare and prosperity of all
Cypriots.
Contact: Arnaldo Abruzzini
5 March Press Release
5th EU-Africa Business Forum
Together with BizClim, BusinessEurope and the European Commission, EUROCHAMBRES has
been chosen to be a strategic co-organiser for the 5th EU-Africa Business Forum, which will take
place in Brussels on 31 March-1 April. The event will bring together both regions’ business
representatives, and will be followed by the political summit the next two days. Registration is now
open via the official event website. Please see the link below.
Contact: Irma Orlandi
5th EU-Africa Business Forum
Registration
EUROCHAMBRES introduced to the ASEAN Connectivity Coordinating
Committee
During a recent visit of the ASEAN Connectivity Coordinating Committee (ACCC) to Brussels,
EUROCHAMBRES strengthened its relations with high representatives of the ASEAN community by
presenting the association and its projects as a best practice to the ACCC.
Contact: Daniel Sahr
EU-ASEAN relations
EuroCham Vietnam’s mission to Brussels supported by EUROCHAMBRES
A EuroCham Vietnam Delegation visited Brussels from 27 February to 7 March, in order to engage
conversations with various stakeholders. EUROCHAMBRES arranged all the meetings with
EuroCham interlocutors to whom they raised awareness, clarified their positions and presented the
work of the different committees.
Contact: Daniel Sahr
EuroCham Vietnam
EU-GCC Invest High Level Policy Conference
EUROCHAMBRES is organising a High Level Policy Conference on 9 April at the European
Parliament. The aim is twofold: to bring the European Union-Gulf Gulf Cooperation Council Invest
(EU-GCCI) project’s concrete achievements closer to EU policy level, and to gather relevant EU and
GCC stakeholders in order to strengthen the dialogue between the two blocs. The conference will
cover EU-GCC Invest existing achievements and issues, as well as explore future challenges and
opportunities relevant to the business community and policy makers.
Contact: Irma Orlandi
EU-GCC Invest conference
Outreach activities in Europe for the European Business and Technology
Centre (EBTC)
EUROCHAMBRES reached an audience of more than 100 SMEs specialised in renewable energies
when speaking about the activities and services of EBTC at the Energy Access Business
Matchmaking Event organised by the Alliance for Rural Electrification (ARE). Upcoming outreach
activities featuring EBTC are expected to reach over 400 SMEs: a webinar dedicated to cleantech
organisations, two events on doing business in India and a dedicated session at the renowned
Cleantech Forum Europe!
Contact: EBTC team in Brussels
19 February, ARE event
25 March Webinar
22 April, Event in Zoetermeer
24 April, Event in Leuven
19-21 May, Cleantech Forum Europe
The MERCOSUR IPR SME Helpdesk: upcoming webinars and participation at
International events
The MERCOSUR IPR SME Helpdesk, co-managed by EUROCHAMBRES, had its first webinar on
26 February, on the Intellectual Property (IP) Legal Aspects in Mercosur and Chile. The next webinar
will take place in April. Regarding the upcoming activities, MERCOSUR IPR Helpdesk will join two
brokerage events organised by the Enterprise Europe Network (EEN) in Hannover, Germany, such
as: the Future Match 2014 at the CeBIT trade fair and the Hannover Messe 2014. On the 1st of
April, MERCOSUR IPR Helpdesk will conduct a workshop on the IP legislation in Brazil during the
Forum Brésil, organised by the Paris Chamber of Commerce and Industry, in the French capital.
Contact: Paolo Baldan
10-14 March, CeBIT
MERCOSUR IPR SME Helpdesk
1 April, Forum Brésil
26 February Webinar' documents
8-9 April, Hannover Messe
EU-Brazil Business Summit underlines joint commitment to boost the
Strategic Partnership
The EU-Brazil Business Summit co-organised by EUROCHAMBRES, BUSINESSEUROPE, and CNI
(the national confederation of industry-Brazil) on the 24th of February gathered senior
representatives of business, as well as political leaders from both sides to discuss avenues to
promote and deepen the Strategic Partnership. Talks also highlighted the importance of swift
progress regarding the EU and MERCOSUR Association Agreement. In addition, after one year of
bilateral negotiations between EUROCHAMBRES, BUSINESSEUROPE, the National Confederation
of Industry-Brazil (CNI) and governments from both sides, a Plan of Action on Competiveness and
Investment was signed by the parties, setting priorities and seeking to expand the strategic
partnership. It also highlights a joint commitment to exploit complementarities between the two
regions.
Contact: Dominic Boucsein
Action Plan
24 February Press Release
Pictures
Conference on the perspectives of the business community towards EUTurkey relations
On 10 April 2014, EUROCHAMBRES is organising in Brussels in cooperation with the Union of
Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey (TOBB), a high level conference to present the
results of two detailed and unique surveys on the business perspective – in the European Union and
in Turkey - on EU-Turkey relations. Mr Çavusoglu, the new Turkish Minister for EU Affairs and Chief
Negotiator will participate in the conference as well as a high level representative from the European
Commission. The conference will be an excellent platform to enhance the on-going debate on
opportunities and challenges of Turkey’s EU membership.
Contact: Juliette Loppé
ETCF
Business Alliance urges negotiators to be ambitious as 4th TTIP negotiation
round commences
With the fourth round of negotiations for the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP)
kicking off this week in Brussels, the Business Alliance for TTIP has urged negotiators to be
ambitious in their talks given the enormous economic benefits that are at stake. Addressing areas
such as the complexity of customs requirements or divergent rules and regulations, will be essential
for SMEs to benefit from this agreement. An ambitious TTIP will be an important stimulus for the
transatlantic economy in creating more jobs and growth.
Contact: Dominic Boucsein
10 March Joint Press Release
Innovation: Trends and Tools
Chambers promote intelligent energy to SMEs
On 13 March, Chamber delegates from 10 countries will meet in Brussels to kick off the "STEEEP"
(Support and Training for Excellent Energy Efficiency Performance) project which is coordinated by
EUROCHAMBRES and co-financed by the "Intelligent Energy Europe" programme. Apart from
capacity-building within the Chamber network, STEEEP will focus on tailored training and guidance
on energy management tools and practices for SMEs. Overall, the project aims to achieve energy
savings of 10-15% in hundreds of cross-sector SMEs from all over Europe.
Contact: Michael Steurer
Intelligent Energy Europe website
Constructive discussion on the Fast Track to Innovation pilot
In a meeting with the Commission’s Directorate-General for Research & Innovation in mid-February,
EUROCHAMBRES’ Secretary General Arnaldo Abruzzini successfully advocated a businessfriendly, bottom-up Fast Track to Innovation pilot. Chambers’ demands, such as an application
procedure including a business case and a strong participation of businesses in consortia, will be
taken into account. The pilot, which is part of the new Horizon 2020 EU multiannual programme to
support research and innovation, is expected to be published in July 2014.
Contact: Bettine Gola
Cross border e-Identity and e-Signature: EU deal close
With the trilogue political agreement, the finalisation of negotiations on a new regulation on e-ID and
e-Signatures is now within touching distance. The new legislation will greatly facilitate the use of e-ID
and e-Signatures in cross-border business-to-business transactions and public procurement
processes. One billion electronic signatures are already used in Europe each day, but there is scope
to increase this figure exponentially and the regulation could act as a strong catalyst.
EUROCHAMBRES and ChamberSign have been very active on this dossier as promoting trust in
business transaction is a core value for Chambers of Commerce.
Contact: Vincent Tilman
27 February Press Release
EU Legislative Framework
Unitary Patent Court first birthday – no cause to celebrate
It is one year since 24 EU Member States signed an intergovernmental agreement to create a
European patent court. So far, only Austria and Malta have ratified the agreement, while France and
Belgium are finalising the ratification process. This is still way far from reaching the minimum
threshold of 13 ratifying countries. EUROCHAMBRES called for urgent action to accelerate the
ratification since the absence of a unitary title costs €425,000 per day to the European economy in
administrative burdens alone.
Contact: Vincent Tilman
19 February Press Release
20 February Press Release
Common European Sales Law: business will decide
The European Parliament has voted in support of the creation of an optional contract law that would
address legal fragmentation in cross-border sales. The proposal is now in the hands of the Council,
which so far has not indicated overwhelming enthusiasm. While the development of such an optional
sales law is certainly innovative, EUROCHAMBRES fears that the proposal does not ensure legal
certainty and that it fails to offer a proper balance of rights. The proposal requires improvement: in
the end, businesses will decide on whether to propose the optional law to their customers.
Contact: Vincent Tilman
26 February Press Release
EUROCHAMBRES presses for SME Initiative and European Guarantee
Platform
On 5 February, EUROCHAMBRES enlisted the support of Presidents Barroso and Van Rompuy in
promoting the SME Initiative towards national governments. This EU proposal to pool financial
resources in order to increase SME access to finance relies on the voluntary participation of Member
States, but so far only Malta, Spain, Portugal have committed to it. EUROCHAMBRES argues that
incorporation of its European Guarantee Platform pilot project architecture into the SME Initiative
could provide additional SME financing leverage on national and regional scale and ensure a strong
connection with the business community.
Contact: Iwona Mertin
Letter to European Commission'
President
Factsheet on SME Initiative & European Guarantee
Platform
EUROCHAMBRES participated to the 6th European Summit of Regions and
Cities
The Summit of the European Region and Cities celebrated in Athens has been an opportunity to talk
to the representatives of the Institution on a possible collaboration with Chambers. Speaking at the
sixth edition of this summit, EUROCHAMBRES’ Secretary General, Arnaldo Abruzzini, explained
how business can positively shape the future of Europe, tackling at the same time the economic
crisis and the youth unemployment.
Contact: Arnaldo Abruzzini
7 March Press Release
news
April 2014
Position
Event
Opportunity
Info
Europe and its Neighbours:
what business can do
While we undertake major efforts to strengthen our partnership with the US and China, as
confirmed in last month’s official visits, the European Union is having a tough time in managing its
relations with neighbouring countries.
The Arab Spring in the south mediterranean countries urged the EU to revise its strategy, looking
to offer a positive answer to social unrest and economic turmoil. The Ukrainian crisis, but also the
Armenian decision to reject the proposed association agreement, created frustration for the EU
on its Eastern borders. And finally, relations with Turkey have also come under increasing
pressure, trying to define a new balance.
EUROCHAMBRES has focused, for a number of years now, on strengthening economic
partnerships with each of those countries. We believe indeed that through economic cooperation,
we can increase mutual understanding, create economic and even political stability in these
regions, and offer better opportunities for EU companies to explore these nearby markets.
For instance, the East Invest initiative was the first regional business-to-business initiative
supported by the EU, which allowed bridges to be built between business organisations from both
sides. A second phase of this EUROCHAMBRES led programme is soon to be launched,
supporting that process further and strengthening public-private dialogue.
In the south, the Invest in Med initiative has helped to promote investment opportunities across
the region. This initiative will also be re-launched in the coming weeks with EUROCHAMBRES,
under the leadership of ANIMA. Even more focus will be put on SME development and job
creation.
With Turkey, political dialogue has become tense, but economic cooperation has been stronger
than ever before. As confirmed in a recent ETCFII Survey, managed by EUROCHAMBRES and
TOBB, many EU companies want to tap into the high potential of the Turkish market, and see
Turkey as a bridge towards Middle East and Central Asian markets.
Such concrete initiatives will not suffice to bring stability and improve relations with our
neighbours, but they do offer a tangible signal that Europe is interested in maintaining a genuine
partnership, based on mutual interest. EUROCHAMBRES will continue to invest in that
partnership, mobilising the Chamber network. Business can pave the way for improved political
dialogue.
Contact: Dirk Vantyghem
East Invest
ETCFII
International Relations and
Trade
EUROCHAMBRES advocates for the inclusion of the European private sector
in EU aid
At a conference co-organised by ActionAid and The Centre on 8 April, EUROCHAMBRES stressed
that the involvement of European SMEs in development projects brings tangible benefits to the
domestic business community. In a recent position paper on Strengthening the Role of the Private
Sector in developing countries, the Chamber network put forward their expertise in contributing to
achieving sustainable and inclusive growth in partner countries as precious input towards a
forthcoming Commission Communication on this topic.
Contact: Philippe Adriaenssens
EUROCHAMBRES' position paper
EUROCHAMBRES promotes EU Business Avenues to South East Asia
EU Business Avenues to South East Asia is an EU' funded project which aims to strengthen the
presence of European companies in this region via one week business missions to Singapore,
Malaysia and Vietnam. It provides strategic, logistic and financial support for European Small and
Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to gain first-hand experience of these markets and establish business
contacts with South East Asian companies. EU Business Avenues focuses its activities on the clean
technologies and interior design sectors.
Contact: Daniel Sahr
Business Avenues
EU SME Centre has a new website
The EU SME Centre - a European Union funded initiative helping SMEs get ready to do business in
China, has launched its new website. In order to offer an easier navigation through the rich source of
information, the new web-portal has an improved visual layout to present the broad range of services
provided by the Centre.
Contact: Daniel Sahr
EU SME Centre
Presentation of the MERCOSUR IPR SME Helpdesk at Institutional level
On 7th April, a meeting sponsored by the European Intellectual Property Rights Ambassadors,
officials of the European Commission (EC) Directorate General for Enterprise, the Executive Agency
for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises and the European Enterprises Network gathered together
for the presentation of the MERCOSUR IPR SME Helpdesk and in order to seek how to explore the
organisation of joint activities in Latin America.
Contact: Paolo Baldan
MERCOSUR IPR SME Helpdesk
IPR Helpdesk Ambassadors
Conference on the perspectives of the business community towards EUTurkey relations
EUROCHAMBRES in cooperation with TOBB has just published, in the context of the second phase
of the EU-Turkey Chambers Forum, two unique and detailed surveys on the business perspective –
in the EU and in Turkey - on EU-Turkey relations. Mr Çavusoglu, the new Turkish Minister for EU
Affairs and Chief Negotiator participated in the conference, organised in Brussels on 10 April 2014,
where the main findings of the surveys were presented.
Contact: Juliette Loppé and Pinar Erdem
Conference draft agenda
Survey I
ETCF
10 April Joint Press Release
Survey II
EU-GCC Dialogue to Strengthen bi-regional relations
On 9 April, EUROCHAMBRES organized a High Level EU-GCC Trade and Investment Conference,
hosted by MEP Mário David (EPP Group) at the European Parliament. Chief negotiators and high
level representatives from both regions addressed key topics between EU-GCC relations, from both
a business and policy point of view, including EUROCHAMBRES’ EU-GCCI report sampling trade
and investment barriers between the two. Both blocs have agreed to further their efforts to improve
bi-regional dialogue.
Contact: Irma Orlandi
Conference draft agenda
9 April Press Release
EU-GCCI Report
Education, Training and Social
Affairs
Engaging SMEs in initial VET
EUROCHAMBRES will on 29 April host a half-day conference on how to engage smaller businesses
in the provision of vocational education and training (VET). With input from European Union and
national experts, the event will consider the benefits to SMEs of providing VET opportunities and will
assess the policy measures and mechanisms that need to be put in place in order for them to do so.
EUROCHAMBRES President, Richard Weber, who’s company regularly takes on apprentices, will
open the conference, alongside the European Commissioner for Education, Culture and Youth,
Androulla Vassiliou.
Contact: Bettine Gola
Conference draft agenda
Registration form
Tackling Youth Unemployment
Participating in a European Economic and Social Committee public hearing on the implementation of
EU policies for youth employment on 1 April, EUROCHAMBRES argued that this challenge needs to
be addressed from many angles. Supply side measures to ensure that people leaving school have
the right skills and competences will have a negligible impact unless in parallel the economy is
buoyant and thriving businesses are creating work. For this reason, EUROCHAMBRES urged the
EESC and the Commission to extend their assessment of measures to tackle the alarming levels of
youth unemployment far beyond the domain of pure employment and social affairs.
Contact: Bettine Gola
EESC's public hearing event
Registration form
Innovation: Trends and Tools
EU summit: EUROCHAMBRES presses for competitive energy prices
In a letter sent to EU leaders ahead of the Spring Summit, EUROCHAMBRES highlighted the
importance of affordable and competitive energy prices for accelerating the reindustrialisation of
Europe. In order to reduce the price pressure on businesses, Chambers called for the removal of all
barriers to competition, infrastructure investments and the development of harmonised EU-wide
support schemes for renewable energy. Moreover, EUROCHAMBRES warned of the threat of
further relocations of energy-intensive industries to third countries caused by overambitious
unilateral climate action.
Contact: Michael Steurer
18 March Press Release
Spring Summit letter
Economic Affairs
SME Intergroup Breakfast on Industrial Competitiveness in Europe
Ahead of the European Council Summit, EUROCHAMBRES sponsored a European Parliament SME
Intergroup breakfast on industrial policy on 18 March, during which participants received a
comprehensive overview of business, academic and the European Commission perspectives.
EUROCHAMBRES welcomed the European Parliament’s report drafted by MEP Buetikofer on
reindustrialising Europe to promote competitiveness and sustainability, but in its letter to the
President Van Rompuy expressed disappointment at the recently published EC communication and
highlighted the fact that most Member States lack concrete strategies and actions.
Contact: Iwona Mertin
22 January Press Release
Spring Summit letter
EUROCHAMBRES high level meeting with Moody’s
On 14 March, EUROCHAMBRES hosted a meeting with high level representatives of Moody’s in
order to enhance the possibility of the credit rating agencies to contribute to a revival of the equity
market for SMEs. It was another in a series of activities that are part of EUROCHAMBRES’ strategy
towards improvement of access to finance. In this context, EUROCHAMBRES also recently
expressed its broadly positive opinion on the new European Commission communications on longterm financing and crowdfunding.
Contact: Iwona Mertin
Response to the crowdfunding consultation
27 March Press Release
Response to long-term financing consultation
EU Legislative Framework
Mediation and pre-insolvency proceedings in the new EC approach to
business failure and insolvency
The European Commission's March 'recommendation on a new approach to business failure and
insolvency' contained two elements that EUROCHAMBRES pushed for during the drafting process.
As mediation is considered by Chambers to be a cornerstone of justice for growth, the inclusion of a
call for the appointment of a mediator and the establishment of flexible pre-insolvency proceedings is
welcomed. This will help ensure a balanced protection of debtors’ and creditors’ interests and avoid
unnecessary costs both for both parties.
Contacts: Vincent Tilman and Alexia Hengl
Position paper on insolvency
EC Recommendation
Rigorous evaluations needed to assess the performance and continued need
of EU actions
EUROCHAMBRES welcomes the Commission’s intention to strengthen its evaluation process in
order to make it more consistent, evidenced-based and transparent with more opportunities for
stakeholders to contribute. While underlining the importance of ensuring independent and impartial
evaluations, EUROCHAMBRES calls for a stronger focus on the assessment of administrative
burdens, simplification potential and impacts on SMEs.
Contact: Typhaine Beaupérin
Position paper on evaluation policy guidelines
Network of SME Envoys discuss Small Business Act
EUROCHAMBRES attended a meeting of the Network of SME Envoys in Munich on 11 March,
during which there was an extensive discussion on the future of the Small Business Act (SBA).
There was general consensus that the SBA’s priorities remain valid, with access to finance
highlighted as the most pressing concern, while several SME Envoys argued for inclusion of skills on
the list. EUROCHAMBRES pointed out that the list of priorities is irrelevant if they are not delivered
and pushed for reflection on how to implement measures more swiftly and effectively. A public
consultation on the SBA in mid-2014 will be followed by the adoption of a revised SBA, probably
under the new Commission in early 2015.
Contact: Typhaine Beaupérin
EUROCHAMBRES participates to Second Plus Europe Conference
On 12th May the Secretary General of EUROCHAMBRES, Arnaldo Abruzzini, will participate to the
opening session of the Second Plus Europe Conference. Held at the Committee of Regions in
Brussels, the event that will gather more than 100 high level participants from around Europe and
will consider the consolidation of the European Union integration process. The conference will also
host the first Workshop of European Chambers of Commerce, professional associations and civic
entities.
Contact: Susete Sampaio
12-13 May Conference draft programme
Chambers News
Build up to the third edition of the European Parliament of Enterprises
The third edition of the European Parliament of Enterprises (EPE) will take place on 16 October
2014. EUROCHAMBRES will bring together over 750 entrepreneurs, coming from 43 European
countries who will get a chance to 'become' Members of the European Parliament for one day,
debating and voting on some of the most crucial topics (skills, finance, energy, SMEs and
innovation) currently at the heart of the political debate.
Contact: Sophie Devos
EPE website
news
May 2014
Position
Event
Opportunity
Info
© xedos4/FreeDigitalPhotos.net
Countdown to the European Elections
The election of Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) for the 8th legislative term will take
place across the EU between 22 and 25 May 2014. For the first time, this election will also have a
direct impact on the leadership of the European Commission, with the Council’s proposed
candidate having to take into account the outcome of the election. Although the process may not
prove quite so straightforward in practice, this implies that the candidate supported by biggest
political group after the elections should be proposed as the new Commission President.
EUROCHAMBRES organised an election panel discussion in April with the cross-party members
of the Presidency of the European Parliament SME Intergroup. A wide range of Chamber
representatives and other stakeholders participated in the event, which covered various key
dossiers within the three main pillars of EUROCHAMBRES’ strategic plan: conditions, markets
and resources. There was reflection on what the European Parliament has done for small and
medium sized enterprises (SMEs) over the previous term and what still needs to be done in the
future.
Not all of the challenges and opportunities for the business community can or should be
addressed by the European Parliament and, of course, other institutions at EU level, notably the
Commission and Council, have considerable influence on the policy environment in which
businesses operate. EUROCHAMBRES nonetheless considers that the European Parliament
must become much better informed about and sensitive to the views of SMEs. MEPs must also
be more aware of the impact of political decisions – both individually and cumulatively - on
businesses’ ability to survive, grow, employ and innovate. This will be a challenge for MEPs, but
also for EUROCHAMBRES as we seek to maintain and enhance our relations with the European
Parliament from the beginning of the new five year term.
The third edition of the European Parliament of Enterprises in October 2014, when entrepreneurs
from the Chamber network will become MEPs for a day, will be a major milestone in this process.
It is impossible to gauge at this stage what the elections will mean for the business community.
Some observers estimate that the three mainstream parties will lose a number of seats to anti-EU
parties from the left and right. This would certainly change the dynamics of the European
Parliament and require adjustments by Chambers and other stakeholders contributing to the
legislative process. Whatever the outcome of the elections, the European Parliament is
undeniably a significant player and the only directly EU institution, so it is crucial that it is attuned
to the needs of businesses, particularly SMEs.
EUROCHAMBRES therefore strongly encourages members of the European Chamber network
to exercise their right to vote later this month.
Contact: Ben Butters
SME Intergroup Photos
European Parliament of Enterprises
Companies and
Entrepreneurship
Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs – impact five years into the programme
A new publication presented at the European Youth Event in Strasbourg on 9 May reveals the
positive impact of Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs (EYE) on the European economy five years
after its launch. EUROCHAMBRES’ President Richard Weber expressed on this occasion his
conviction that such concrete and practical measure will contribute to Europe’s recovery and growth.
The programme, in which EUROCHAMBRES acts as Support Office, has facilitated over 2.500
exchanges until now and contributed directly to the creation of new companies by a third of the
participating aspiring entrepreneurs.
Contact: Ivelina Fedulova
EYE's website
EYE's new publication
9 May Press Release
International Relations and
Trade
East Invest at high level events in Moldova and Georgia
Anticipating the signature of the association agreements (including DCFTAs) with Moldova and
Georgia, the EU is organising two high level investment conferences in the countries, on 12 and 13
June 2014, respectively. East Invest is contributing actively to the events: with speakers from
EUROCHAMBRES (Vice Presidents Konstantinos Michalos and Andrzej Arendarski are to
participate), as well as with the promotion of the conferences among the East Alliance members.
Registration: European External Action Service
website
Contact at EUROCHAMBRES: Irina Tikhonova
East Invest website
EUROCHAMBRES takes the EU-India FTA out of the freezer in New Delhi
Instigated by EUROCHAMBRES and supported by the European Business and Technology Centre
(EBTC), the Europe-India Chamber of Commerce (EICC) and the European Business Group (EBG)
organised a high level event in New Delhi on 7 May. A study report on 'European Companies in India:
Reigniting Economic Growth' was presented in presence of an audience of over 60 representatives
from the private and public sectors. EUROCHAMBRES’ Secretary General, Arnaldo Abruzzini seized
this opportunity to push for a jumpstart of the EU-India Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations
after the Indian elections.
Contact: EBTC team in Brussels
7 May Event
Download the report from the brand-new EBTC
website
MERCOSUR IPR SME Helpdesk interventions at events in Spain, Poland and
Belgium
On 27 May, the Mercosur IPR SME Helpdesk will discuss innovation opportunities in Chile during an
event co-organised by the Catalan agency for business competitiveness (ACCIO) and the
Technological Centre of Leitat. This EU-funded project co-managed by EUROCHAMBRES was also
actively involved in an event in Warsaw, on 13 May, to explore possibilities for cooperation between
Central and Eastern Europe and Latin America and the Caribbean. It was jointly organised by the
Polish Institute of International Affairs and the EU-LAC Foundation. Also, during the same week the
Mercosur Helpdesk met with Belgian SMEs in Bruges in an event organised by VOKA, the Flanders'
Chamber of Commerce and Industry, on business opportunities in Latin America.
Contact: Paolo Baldan
MERCOSUR IPR SME Helpdesk
Coming soon: Launch of EUROMED INVEST in Marseille
EUROCHAMBRES will participate in the kick-off meeting of the EUROMED INVEST project in
Marseille on May 26. The official kick-off meeting will be followed by the presentation of the five
strategies developed around the selected sectors, which are: agrifood, transport & logistics, cultural &
creative industries, water & green energies and tourism. The first EuroMed Invest Academy will be
organised on 27 and 28 May. It will focus on foreign direct investments, promotion and investor
servicing, business support services for existing small and medium enterprises and support services
for new entrepreneurs.
Contact: Juliette Loppé
Final event of the second phase of the EU-Turkey Chambers Forum in Ankara
The final conference of the second phase of the EU-Turkey Chamber Forum (ETCF II) will be held on
3 June in Ankara. The event will present the outcomes of the various ETCF II activities implemented
since June 2011 by EUROCHAMBRES and The Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of
Turkey (TOBB) to enhance the capacity of Turkish Chambers and their role in the EU accession
process, as well as to improve mutual knowledge and understanding between business communities
in the EU and in Turkey.
Contact: Juliette Loppé
ETCF II's website
Education, Training and Social
Affairs
Conference and publication on SME involvement in apprenticeship schemes
On 29 April, EUROCHAMBRES held a conference on support measures and incentives to encourage
SME participation in apprenticeship schemes. During the conference, European Commissioner for
Education, Training and Youth, Androulla Vassiliou, highlighted the role Chambers play in many
countries in facilitating SME involvement in vocational education & training. EUROCHAMBRES
President, Richard Weber and Deputy President, Martha Schultz, explained the importance to their
respective companies of apprentices and a collection of best practices and recommendations from
the Chamber network was presented.
Contact: Bettine Gola
Collection of Chamber's best practices
Conference's agenda
Live Twitter's debate
Conference's photos
29 April Press Release
Economic Affairs
EUROCHAMBRES Business Breakfast with Chief Scientific Adviser to
President Barroso
On 21 May, EUROCHAMBRES will host a business breakfast with Professor Anne Glover, Chief
Scientific Adviser to the President of the European Commission. The event will be a valuable
opportunity to discuss communication between business and research communities, potential
priorities in research and innovation over the next term of the EU institutions, and the role of
Chambers and other business stakeholders in the Chief Scientific Adviser’s work.
Contact: Iwona Mertin
More information
Registration
Business Breakfasts' contact
news
June 2014
Position
Event
Opportunity
Info
ASEAN: A region not to be ignored!
With a population of approximately 600 million, a combined GDP of over 1.7 trillion Euros, and
impressive growth rates, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is a prime
destination for EU companies willing to internationalise their business. Over the last years, the
EU and ASEAN became major trading partners with over 240 billion Euros of bilateral trade in
goods and services, but this might be only the beginning of greater economic and commercial
relations.
ASEAN countries are currently speeding up the process to establish an ASEAN Economic
Community by the end of 2015, with the aim to achieve intra-regional free movement of goods,
services, investment, and skilled labor, as well as a free flow of capital. Within this common EUASEAN agenda, the EU private sector will play a key role in achieving these goals, but ASEAN
must also commit to making it easier for domestic and foreign businesses to operate in the region
and reach the target.
The European Commission has clearly identified the growing potential of the ASEAN regional
market and wants to set the right framework for doing business in the region through various
policies.
Even if the EU-ASEAN Free Trade Negotiations are on hold, a first success has been achieved
with the initialisation of a bilateral comprehensive Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with Singapore in
December 2013. Serious progress is currently made at the EU-Vietnam FTA negotiations with the
aim to conclude by the end of this year, while the talks with Thailand and Malaysia might be
resumed soon.
In order to help small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) seize market opportunities and to
help them to increase and diversify their exports and investments to the ASEAN regional market,
the European Union co-funded new Business Networks in Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines
and Vietnam. These Networks will not only provide market access information services but they
will also contribute to the policy dialogue on the business environment and on the trade relations
in their respective country.
On the 25th of June 2014, EUROCHAMBRES, teaming up with the three Business Networks in
Indonesia, the Philippines and Vietnam, will organise in close cooperation with Friends of Europe,
the Brussels launch of these Networks. It will be a unique event, where participants be able to
learn more about the Networks, their services and the market opportunities, while getting an
important overview about the EU-ASEAN trade relations. Further information about this event can
be found in this newsletter.
Contact: Daniel Sahr
International Relations and
Trade
Launch of the EU-ASEAN Business Networks in Indonesia, Philippines and
Vietnam
On the 25th of June 2014, EUROCHAMBRES is teaming up with three EU-ASEAN Business
Networks to present their offer of services and raise awareness about the various market
opportunities for EU small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) in the respective country. A panel
discussion will give the participant further insights about SMEs’ internationalisation to the ASEAN
regional market and highlight the EU-ASEAN trade relations.
Contact: Daniel Sahr
Registration form
Draft agenda
EU SME Centre Case Study: Marketing for EU SMEs in China
Via a recent case study, European SMEs new to the Chinese market can learn how other companies
successfully implemented marketing strategies in China. SMEs can also find an EU SME Centre
report on Marketing for EU SMEs in China which is free to download on the Centre website.
Contact: Daniel Sahr
EU SME Centre website
Download the case study here
EUROCHAMBRES continues to push for an ambitious EU-India FTA via the
media
Following EUROCHAMBRES’ Secretary General's intervention in support of an ambitious EU-India
Free Trade Agreement (FTA) at a political conference in New Delhi co-organised by the European
Business and Technology Centre (EBTC) last month, Arnaldo Abruzzini seized the momentum of the
elections in the country to publish an Editorial in EurActiv and a Letter to the Editor in the Financial
Times urging for a re-launch of the negotiations.
Contact: EBTC team
EBTC website
Opinion Editorial in EurActiv
Letter to the Editor in Financial Times
MERCOSUR IPR SME Helpdesk's expertise on doing business in Latin
America
SMEs' internationalisation to Latin America, the region of expertise of MERCOSUR IPR Helpdesk,
will be the main theme of the next events that this EU programme co-managed by
EUROCHAMBRES will participate in this month. Firstly, on 24 June via a webinar organised by
UnionCamere and addressed to Italian local chambers’ internationalisation experts. Two days later,
its presence will be marked in a Seminar offered by the French Chamber of Paris. Since its launch,
the Heldesk organises frequent training webinars. The last one on "Key aspects of Intellectual
Property rights in Argentina and Paraguay ,held on 4 June, served as an introduction to the current
Mission for Growth led in those countries (and Panama) by the European Commissioner for Industry
and Entrepreneurship, Antonio Tajani.
Contact: Paolo Baldan
MERCOSUR IPR SME Helpdesk
4 June webinar's recorded version
OPENING: Call for proposals to implement an EUROMED Invest operation
On 26 May 2014, EUROMED Invest, the three year programme managed by the Med Alliance
Consortium, was officially launched in the French city of Marseille. The event brought together more
than one hundred business representatives from both regions. It was also the occasion to announce
the opening of the first call for proposals to implement an operation, including: Euro-Med Business
Roadshow in the South European Neighbourhood Instrument's countries (ENI), EU Mediterranean
Roadshows in the EU, Young entrepreneurs Master Classes, Entrepreneur/Business Support
Organisations mentoring programmes and EUROMED Invest Academy. The proposals should be
submitted by 13 July 2014 to the coordination team in ANIMA Investment Network.
Contact: Juliette Loppé
Procedure Guide
ANIMA's coodination team
Instruments
The business community as a major actor to re-energise the EU-Turkey
relations
On the occasion of the final conference of the second phase of the EU-Turkey Chambers Forum in
Ankara, which took place on 3 June 2014, the newly appointed Head of the EU Delegation to Turkey,
Ambassador Stefano Manservisi, stressed that “Cooperation between public authorities is a
necessary, but not sufficient condition to the success of the accession process", adding that "strong
and sustained dialogue between Turkish and EU business actors is also needed”. The results of the
ETCF II project and its contribution to the EU-Turkey dialogue and cooperation were highly
appreciated by both the EU and the Turkish authorities. A total of 120 Chambers from Turkey and
from EU participated in this event.
Contact: Juliette Loppé
ETCF II final brochure
EUROCHAMBRES staying committed to raise the voice of SMEs as TTIP
progresses
As negotiations for the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP) are gaining depth, with
five negotiation rounds being completed, EUROCHAMBRES continues to raise the voice of SMEs in
this topic in order to make TTIP a benchmark for a truly SME-friendly trade agreement. Outreach to
negotiating teams, civil society and the wider business community is thereby essential in driving
negotiations forward, and in highlighting the benefits TTIP can bring to companies and to SMEs in
particular. In this sense, EUROCHAMBRES together with the Business Alliance has highlighted five
key reasons to support TTIP, thus showcasing a united front of support from the business community
for this agreement.
Contact: Dominic Boucsein
Business Alliance joint Press Release
Education, Training and Social
Affairs
Interlinking education and employment: supporting dual VET
Speaking alongside the Commissioner for Employment, László Andor, at a Scottish Government
event titled “From Education to Employment – Putting Policies into Practice” on 19 May,
EUROCHAMBRES' Director of European Affairs, Ben Butters, highlighted the importance of
interlinking both spheres. He stressed that the transition from education to employment should not be
a linear one, taking into account the benefits of continuous education. Moreover, he highlighted the
value of vocational education & training (VET) with a strong work-based component in bridging the
gap between education and employment. It was also argued that the provision of VET should receive
stronger support from EU level.
Contact: Bettine Gola
Event programme
President Weber meets 5000 young Europeans!
On 9 May, President Weber spoke at three sessions of the European Youth Event, a massive event
co-organised by the European Parliament, the Commission and the European Youth Forum in
Strasbourg. More than 5000 young people attended workshops on Erasmus+, youth employment
and Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs, and took part in activities organised by various youth
organisations. From the business side, Chambers were the only representatives taking part in the
event. During his speech in the opening session, President Weber highlighted that Chambers provide
support to young entrepreneurs and stressed the potential of dual training as a bridge between
education and employment. EUROCHAMBRES' Advisor, Bettine Gola, also spoke in a session
regarding the Youth Guarantee.
Contact: Bettine Gola
European Youth Event
Photo of the Opening session
President Weber at Opening Session
Photo of the pannel on Youth Guarantee
Innovation: Trends and Tools
EUROCHAMBRES Business Breakfast on Smart Energy for SME Growth
On 24 June, EUROCHAMBRES will present a new publication illustrating support services for energy
efficiency and success stories from innovative SMEs across Europe. As an official part of the
European Sustainable Energy Week 2014, the publication launch will be followed by a panel
discussion on how to tackle the untapped energy efficiency potential of European businesses.
Speakers will include EU officials and Chamber representatives.
Contact: Michael Steurer
Registration form
Economic Affairs
Chief Scientific Adviser to EC President Barroso promotes evidence based
policy making
On 21 May, EUROCHAMBRES hosted a business breakfast with Professor Anne Glover, Chief
Scientific Adviser to the President of the European Commission. Professor Glover highlighted the
importance of science-business matchmaking that would increase the mutual understanding and
contribute to a better dialogue between problem-owners and problem-solvers. Professor Glover also
underlined the urgent need for a new system of evidence gathering within the European Commission
that would be independent, centralised, transparent and open, a recommendation that attracted the
interest of several EU media. This suggestion resonates strongly with EUROCHAMBRES, which
continually calls for a more evidence-based approach to policy making and is fully prepared to
support the Chief Scientific Adviser for the new term in these efforts.
Contact: Iwona Mertin
Photos of the Business Breakfast
Past Business Breakfasts
Business Breakfasts' contact
Chambers’ News
EUROCHAMBRES' Spring Plenary Assembly
On 6 June, EUROCHAMBRES' members gathered at the European Economic and Social Committee
(EESC) in Brussels for the first Plenary Assembly of President Weber's term. In the presence of
Henri Malosse, EESC President, EUROCHAMBRES elected its third Deputy President. The newlyelected Constantine Michalos from the Hellenic Union of Chambers will replace Pierre Gramegna,
who left the Luxembourg Chamber of Commerce to become the Grand Duchy's Minister of Finance.
Several other topics were on the agenda, including the forthcoming European Parliament of
Enterprises (EPE). EUROCHAMBRES assemblies are held biannually and the next will take place on
17 October in Brussels, the day after the EPE.
Contact: Catherine Bourdeau
European Parliament of Enterprises
Photos of the Plenary Assembly
news
July 2014
Position
Event
Opportunity
Info
Smart Energy for SME Growth
In recent years, rising energy prices and tough economic conditions have challenged the
competitiveness of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Europe. However,
building on their capacity to innovate, an increasing number of SMEs have – with Chambers’
support - developed pioneering actions to improve their energy efficiency and allow them to rise
to the new challenges of the global economy.
On 24 June, EUROCHAMBRES presented a new publication illustrating examples of Chamber
energy efficiency support services and success stories from innovative SMEs across Europe. The
best-practices do not only provide evidence that being innovative pays off. They also
demonstrate that, with the right guidance and support, SMEs can achieve significant energy
efficency gains thanks to very simple low- or even no - cost measures.
The publication’s content underlines the commitment of Chambers across Europe to energy
efficiency, that their services respond directly to the needs of SMEs and that they lead to
concrete results. Indeed, three out of four EUROCHAMBRES members provide energy efficiency
services, including advice on public funding, training and awareness raising.
As part of the official programme of European Sustainable Energy Week 2014, the publication’s
launch event in Brussels was opened by EUROCHAMBRES President Richard Weber and
included a panel discussion on how to tackle the untapped energy efficiency potential of
European businesses.
EUROCHAMBRES continues to engage actively in the on-going discussions on Europe’s energy
strategy for 2030 and beyond. Meanwhile, as the new "Smart Energy for Growth" publication
confirms, Chambers are helping businesses to cut their energy costs and contribute to the EU’s
climate change response.
Contacts: Michael Steurer
Brochure “Smart Energy for Growth”
Companies and
Entrepreneurship
“60 Seconds for Businesses” – Filming MEPs’ statements
On 8-9 July, EUROCHAMBRES was in the European Parliament in Brussels to film 60-seconds
statements from Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) on four crucial topics for businesses:
internationalisation, skills, finance and energy. This gave a unique opportunity to the newly-elected
MEPs to express their views on their business priorities for the next five years. The videos will be
promoted via EUROCHAMBRES’ social media and may feature during the European Parliament of
Enterprises on 16 October in the Brussels Hemicycle.
Contact: Sophie Devos-Gaillard
EUROCHAMBRES’ YouTube channel (MEP
videos coming soon)
European Parliament of Enterprises website
Growth & Jobs Agenda for 2014-19
To coincide with the inaugural meetings of the eighth European Parliament, EUROCHAMBRES
published ‘Growth and Jobs Agenda for 2014-19’, its priorities and recommendations for the new EU
term. The publication is a call to EU policy makers to pursue a pro-business agenda over the next
five years by ensuring favourable conditions, accessible markets and adequate resources. Copies
were distributed to during the European Parliament’s first session of the new term in Brussels.
Contact: Ben Butters
Brochure “A Growth and Jobs Agenda for 201419”
Smart regulation: EUROCHAMBRES welcomes the Commission’s and the
Council’s renewed commitment
The Commission in its new Communication on the results of REFIT and the European Council at its
meeting on 26-27 June sent a clear message to the business community: cutting red tape will
continue to be a priority over the next EU legislative term. EUROCHAMBRES will continue to
engage with the EU institutions to minimise the overall regulatory burden and achieve an evidencebased approach to policy making. The European Parliament should also join efforts in seeking
quality legislation for the benefit of businesses and citizens over the next five years.
Contact: Typhaine Beaupérin-Holvoet
European Commission’s Communication
“Regulatory Fitness and Performance Programme
(REFIT): State of Play and Outlook”
European Council 26-27 June conclusions
International Relations and
Trade
China SME Centre: second phase ready for kick off!
On 10 July, the China British Business Council (CBBC) has signed the agreement with the EU
Delegation in Beijing for implementing the second phase of the China SME Centre. CBBC acts on
behalf of a consortium including EUROCHAMBRES, the EU Chamber of Commerce in Beijing and
four bilateral Chambers (France, Belgium/Netherlands, Italy, United Kingdom). The SME Centre will
continue to offer relevant services to small and medium enterprises who try to enter the Chinese
market. It will operate in full complementarity with member states’ efforts in the
country. EUROCHAMBRES will focus on promoting the Centre’s activities across the EU.
Contact: Daniel Sahr
EU SME Centre website
EU-ASEAN Business Networks successfully launched
On 25 June, EUROCHAMBRES teamed up with the EU-ASEAN Business Networks in Indonesia, the
Philippines and Vietnam to present the network’s offer of services and to highlight the business
opportunities for EU small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) in these countries. A high-level
panel discussion delivered further insights about SMEs’ internationalisation to the ASEAN regional
market and the European Commission’s initiatives to strengthen EU-ASEAN trade relations.
Contact: Daniel Sahr
EU-Indonesia Business Network website
EU-Philippines Business Network website
EU-Vietnam Business Network website
EU-Indonesia Business Network: website available!
All you need to know about doing business in Indonesia can now be found on www.eibn.org. EIBN, a
European Union co-funded project, helping small companies do business in Indonesia, recently
launched its website. The web-portal is a rich source of information where you can find insights
about Indonesia and the ASEAN regional market. It also gives an overview of the various services
provided by the network and highlights concrete business opportunities Indonesia offers.
Contact: Daniel Sahr
EU-Indonesia Business Network website
India: new European Technology Experience Centre (ETEC) in Madurai
On 24 July the European Business and Technology Centre (EBTC) will launch the second physical
location of ETEC – the European Technology Experience Centre – at the Thiagarajar College of
Engineering (TCE) in the State of Tamil Nadu. By showcasing EU technologies and facilitating
partnerships between European and Indian entrepreneurs and researchers for tech demonstration,
localisation of technologies, vocational training, innovation and IP creation, ETEC embodies EBTC’s
striving to achieve stronger institutional sustainability in India.
Contact: EBTC team in Brussels
EBTC’s virtual ETEC
EUROCHAMBRES strengthens ties with Israel
On 26 June, EUROCHAMBRES joined the first EU-Israel SME Dialogue, organised by the European
Commission’s DG Enterprise in Tel Aviv, and presented the Euro Med Invest initiative as a concrete
tool for promoting business cooperation. The visit was also an occasion to strengthen relations with
its counterpart organisations in the country, in particular the Federation of Israeli Chambers of
Commerce. Both parties agreed that cooperation should be intensified, for instance in areas of
innovation and SME development.
Contact: Juliette Loppé
New: factsheet on Argentina Intellectual Property
The Mercosur IPR SME Helpdesk has published a new fact sheet giving an overview on how to
protect and manage Intellectual Property assets in Argentina with a practical approach tailored to the
needs of European small and medium enterprises. The factsheet, in English, will soon be available
in Spanish, French, German and Portuguese.
Contact: Paolo Baldan
Factsheets
Mercosur IPR SME Helpdesk website
United States: EUROCHAMBRES joins TTIP Advisory Group
EUROCHAMBRES has been invited to join the European Commission Advisory Group on TTIP
(Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership) negotiations, to specifically focus on the interests of
small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Felix Neugart from the German Chamber organisation will
join the regular meetings on its behalf. He will work closely with UEAPME and ESBA to make sure
negotiations consider the specific concerns of SMEs in transatlantic trade and investment relations.
Contact: Dominic Boucsein
Economic Affairs
EUROCHAMBRES selected for the European Crowdfunding Stakeholder
Forum
EUROCHAMBRES has been invited to join the European Crowdfunding Stakeholder Forum of the
European Commission, which will assist the Commission in developing policies for
crowdfunding. The competition was intense, with EUROCHAMBRES’ expert selected from among
over one hundred highly qualified applicants. The first meeting will take place in
autumn. EUROCHAMBRES’ expert will liaise regularly with members via the association’s Access to
Finance Committee, chaired by Vice President Miguel Valls.
Contact: Iwona Mertin
European Crowdfunding Stakeholder Forum – Call
for Applications
news
September 2014
Position
Event
Opportunity
Info
La Grande Rentrée for the EU institutions
The start of September is the moment of la rentrée in many European countries, with summer
holidays coming to an end and the start of a new academic year. For the EU institutions too,
September marks a new chapter, never more so than in 2014 as policy makers gear up for the
next five year legislative term.
Following the May elections and subsequent allocations of positions and inaugural committee
and political meetings, the new European Parliament will get down to business properly this
month.
This, in turn, will help the Italian Presidency of the Council of the EU to accelerate the pace of its
semester and implementation of the 18 month trio agenda that will comprise also the Latvia and
Luxembourg Presidency terms next year.
Meanwhile, the new European Commission will begin to take shape under President-elect JeanClaude Juncker. The Commissioners have now all been nominated and portfolios
distributed. The candidates will this month be grilled by the relevant committees of the European
Parliament before the plenary votes on the 28-member College of Commissioners.
EUROCHAMBRES has not just been lying on the beach throughout this period of institutional
renewal. In July, short statements from dozens of new and returning MEPs were filmed as our ’60
seconds for businesses’ initiative was launched. We also published and disseminated a ‘Growth
and Jobs Agenda for 2014-2019’, containing a series of recommendations for the EU institutions
to pursue over the next term. The content is reflected in the questions that we have submitted to
European Parliament committees to address when interviewing Commissioners-designate and in
specific proposals to be sent to the Commission President-elect.
EUROCHAMBRES’ activities in the build-up to the new EU term will continue during the autumn,
with various events on key issues and, of course, the European Parliament of Enterprises on 16
October. This will provide a platform for over 750 entrepreneurs, drawn from 45 European
countries, to highlight, debate and vote on the key challenges and objectives for the 2014-19 EU
term.
So, September 2014 represents a rentrée on a grand scale and marks the start of what is certain
to prove a fascinating and challenging new five year EU term. EUROCHAMBRES looks forward
to collaborating with the Chamber network, policy makers and other stakeholders throughout this
period to ensure that the term is as pro-business as possible.
Contact: Ben Butters
Brochure “A Growth and Jobs Agenda for 2014-2019”
“60 seconds for businesses" videos
European Parliament of Enterprises website
Companies and
Entrepreneurship
European Parliament of Enterprises: one month to go!
On 16 October in Brussels will take place the third edition of the European Parliament of
Enterprises. 750 business men and women will get a chance to 'become' Members of the European
Parliament for one day, debating and voting on some of the most crucial topics currently at the heart
of political debate. Martin Schulz, President of the European Parliament, already confirmed his
presence as well as the following scene setters: Christoph Leitl, Chairman of the Global Chamber
Platform, for the Internationalisation session; Joachim James Calleja, Director CEDEFOP, for the
Skills’ session and Dariusz Rosati, Member of the European Parliament, for the Finance session.
Contact: Sophie Devos-Gaillard
European Parliament of Enterprises website
Establishment of Business Cooperation Centres in third countries for the
Enterprise Europe Network
The European Commission published a call for expression of interests addressed to business and
innovation support organisations located in third countries including European bilateral Chambers
and EU trade promotion organisations. The objective is to establish 'Business Cooperation Centres'
(BCC) in foreign countries to cooperate with the Enterprise Europe Network (EEN) for the period
2015-2020 to facilitate business cooperation, technology transfer and research
collaboration. EUROCHAMBRES’ request for a transparent and fair procedure of appointment of
EEN third countries partners in synergy with established business-support structures has been
retained by the Commission, which should lead to the selection of the most suitable organisations
abroad.
Contact: Typhaine Beaupérin-Holvoet
Call for Expressions of Interest - 'Business
Cooperation Centres' in third countries for the
Enterprise Europe Network
International Relations and
Trade
President of the Philippine’s keynote speech at Public-Private Partnership
conference
On the occasion of the Visit to Brussels of HE President Benigno Simeon Aquino III, the Government
of the Republic of the Philippines in close cooperation with the Embassy of the Philippines in
Brussels, the Department of Trade and Industry of the Philippines, EUROCHAMBRES, the PPP
Centre Philippines and Friends of Europe will organise on 16 September a “Conference on PublicPrivate Partnership Program for Infrastructure Projects in the Republic of the Philippines”. An
excellent opportunity for foreign companies to know more about the various infrastructure projects in
the Philippines and how to participate in their implementation.
Contact: Daniel Sahr
Agenda
Invitation
EU Business Avenues to South East Asia – Interior Design Mission
A one week business mission to Singapore and Vietnam will take place in March 2015 as part of “EU
Business Avenues to South East Asia” to strengthen the presence of European Interior Design
companies in this region. It will provide strategic, logistic and financial support for European small
and medium enterprises to gain first-hand experience of these markets and establish business
contacts with South East Asian companies. A webinar dedicated to the Interior Design mission will
take place on 2 October from 10 to 11 a.m. CET.
Contact: Daniel Sahr
Webinar on Interior Design mission
EU Business Avenues to South East Asia website
The Hamburg Summit: the EU-China event not to miss!
On 10-11 October over 400 experts from the business, political and academic world will come
together at the Hamburg Chamber of Commerce (Germany) to discuss the state of the SinoEuropean economic relations. Political leaders including Chinese Premier Li Keqiang and
Luxembourg Prime Minister Xavier Bettel will attend the Summit and deliver keynote
speeches. Speaking at the event, EUROCHAMBRES’ President Richard Weber will outline the
challenges and opportunities for Chinese investments in Europe.
Contact: Daniel Sahr
The Hamburg Summit website
Improving business with the United Arab Emirates
On 17 September EUROCHAMBRES will participate in a conference in Brussels organised in the
context of the Dubai Association Centre’s European Roadshow. This will provide an opportunity to
discuss how to improve business and investment relations with the United Arab Emirates with senior
representatives from the Dubai World Trade Center and the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and
Industry.
Contact: Juliette Loppé
Dubai Chamber website
EBTC puts Europe on the map in Asia at Renewable Energy India Expo
The European Business and Technology Centre (EBTC) and eight partner organisations successfully
created a ‘European Pavilion’ at one of Asia's largest renewable energy events – the 8th Renewable
Energy India Expo. Inaugurated by the EU Delegation to India, the pavilion attracted on 3-5
September plenty of visitors who had the unique opportunity to discuss new business leads with the
representatives of 17 cleantech companies from seven different EU Member States.
Contact: EBTC Team in Brussels
EBTC website
Latin America: EUROCHAMBRES to participate in European Investment Forum
in Paraguay
Following its continuous engagement in promoting Latin American-European economic relations,
EUROCHAMBRES will participate in the European Investment Forum in Asunción (Paraguay) on 2324 October. The Forum will count on the presence of high level participants from the European
Union, Paraguay and the MERCOSUR in order to promote investment opportunities in the region.
Contact: Dominic Boucsein
Latin America: EUROCHAMBRES to steer ERANet-LAC
EUROCHAMBRES was appointed as a member of the steering committee of the ERANetLAC. ERANet-LAC is a network of the European Union and the Community of Latin American and
Caribbean States (CELAC) on Joint Innovation and Research Activities. It supports the
implementation of the Joint Initiative for Research and Innovation (JIRI) which was adopted by the
EU-LAC Summit in 2010 with the objective to foster scientific cooperation between the two
regions. EUROCHAMBRES’ role in the Steering committee will focus on the involvement of EU small
and medium companies in the science, technology and innovation activities of the network.
Contact: Paolo Baldan
ERANet-LAC website
EU-MED Business Summit
EUROCHAMBRES will participate in the organisation of the EU-MED Business Summit which will be
organised in Brussels on 30 September, ahead of the 10th Union for the Mediterranean Trade
Ministerial Conference. This summit, opened by EU Commissioner for Trade Karel De Gucht and the
Jordan Trade Minister, will gather senior representatives of the business community from both
regions, providing them with an opportunity to interact and convey their views, concerns and wishes
to the political leaders in both regions on the current and future trade and investment environment.
Contact: Juliette Loppé
EUROMED Invest: results of the first call for proposals
Further to the call launched last May, 36 operations have been selected out of 66 proposals
received. From October 2014 to December 2016, 8 roadshows in the Southern Mediterranean as
well as 7 roadshows in the EU will be organised. Further to this first call, 6 masterclasses for Young
Entrepreneurs will be held in the Southern Mediterranean and 6 EUROMED invest Academies will be
organised. In addition, 9 Business Support Organisations cooperation and mentoring programmes
will be implemented. A second call will be launched next summer.
Contact: Juliette Loppé
Conference on “What can the business community bring to EU enlargement?”
On 15 October, one week after the publication of the 2014 enlargement strategy by the European
Commission, EUROCHAMBRES will hold a conference in Brussels on the contribution of the
business community to the EU enlargement. The aim of this event is to enhance the dialogue
between the business community and the European institutions, in particular the European
Commission, on enlargement issues of specific importance for the business community. It will also
provide a forum for expression and debate on the economic opportunities and challenges of the ongoing enlargement based on the outcomes of the 2014 progress reports and on how the business
community can contribute to the success of the enlargement process.
Contact: Juliette Loppé
United States: EUROCHAMBRES advancing the SME agenda in TTIP
In relation to the investor-to-state dispute settlement (ISDS) in the Transatlantic Trade and
Investment Partnership (TTIP), EUROCHAMBRES is seeking to make the system more accessible
and efficient for small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Two themes need to be tackled to ensure
equal opportunities for participation of all companies: (1) a reduction of costs for ISDS proceedings
and (2) shorter and more efficient proceedings. These items were raised in the answer to the
European Commission’s public consultation, and are part of the broader aim of EUROCHAMBRES to
advance the SME agenda in TTIP negotiations.
Contact: Dominic Boucsein
Education, Training and Social
Affairs
Business breakfast on the Flagship Initiative for Apprenticeships
On 25 September EUROCHAMBRES will host a Business Breakfast to discuss what Europe can do
to boost apprenticeships. Only about a quarter of vocational education and training (VET) students in
the EU are enrolled in programmes that combine school and company-based learning. Deputy
President Martha Schultz will present EUROCHAMBRES’ proposal for a Europe 2020 flagship
initiative to increase the share of apprenticeships among VET programmes to 50% by 2020.
Contact: Bettine Gola
Business Breakfasts webpage
Economic Affairs
EUROCHAMBRES at the European Crowdfunding Stakeholder Forum
On 25 September EUROCHAMBRES will take part in a first meeting of the European Crowdfunding
Stakeholder Forum of the European Commission. The meeting will focus on various elements such
as market mapping, awareness raising, challenges and best practice.
Contact: Iwona Mertin
Details on the European Crowdfunding
Stakeholder Forum
EUROCHAMBRES actively involved in Sixth Cohesion Forum
On 8 September, EUROCHAMBRES spoke at a European Commission conference on investment
for jobs and growth: promoting development and good governance in EU regions and
cities. Speaking in a panel onto how to build effective partnerships and multi-level governance
arrangements, EUROCHAMBRES was able to join the debate on the coordination of European
Structural and Investment Funds, financial engineering instruments and the Chambers’ involvement
in governance process. The event brought together policy-makers, financial institutions and
representatives of the regions and business communities.
Contact: Iwona Mertin
Sixth Cohesion Forum website
news
October 2014
Position
Event
Opportunity
Info
European Parliament of Enterprises: six days to go!
In just over a couple of days - on 16 October - EUROCHAMBRES will stage the third edition of the
"European Parliament of Enterprises", the largest event at EU level giving the floor directly to
entrepreneurs.
This will provide a platform for over 750 entrepreneurs, drawn from 45 European countries, to highlight,
debate and vote on the key challenges and objectives for the 2014-19 EU term. The sessions – on
internationalisation, skills, finance and energy – reflect major issues to be addressed in the coming
months and years if Europe’s businesses are to thrive.
The EPE provides an important reality check for policy makers. It’s an opportunity to hear directly from
owner-managers of businesses large and small, service providers and manufacturers. This opportunity
must be grasped and their opinions must have a positive impact on the new EU term.
Contact: Sophie Devos-Gaillard
Press Release 16 September
European Parliament of Enterprises website
Follow #EPE2014 on Twitter!
Companies and
Entrepreneurship
SME Assembly and SME Envoy Network
The European Commission’s annual SME Assembly took place in Naples on 2-3 October, with the support
of the Italian Presidency of the EU. The Chamber network played an active role throughout the
discussions that covered many different topics, notably in sessions on transatlantic trade, completion of
the digital single market and on business dynamics. The Network of SME Envoys also met on the fringes
of the Assembly, reflecting in particular on how to strengthen ties with the Competitiveness Council, a
development that EUROCHAMBRES supports in its efforts to increase EU ministers’ focus on SME policy.
Contact: Ben Butters
SME Assembly 2014 webpage
International Relations and Trade
South East Asia – Interior Design & Cleantech Missions
In the framework of the EU Business Avenues programme, EUROCHAMBRES invites all Chambers to
explore its two remaining missions to South East Asia. The first mission is in Interior Design, which will
take place from 11-17 March 2015, in association with the 2015 International Furniture Fair. This will be
followed by the final mission in Cleantech, scheduled for 15-19 June 2015. Given the EU-ASEAN
framework, both events will be hosted partly in Singapore and partly in Vietnam.
Contact: Irma Orlandi
EU-Business Avenues website
East Invest II kicks-off
The second phase of the East Invest project was launched on the occasion of a first Project Team meeting
in Brussels on 9 October. The consortium partners BUSINESSEUROPE and UEAPME will, together with
and under the leadership of EUROCHAMBRES, implement the different training and economic promotion
activities in the six Eastern Partnership (EaP) countries (Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Republic
of Moldova, Ukraine) in the coming three years. The initial phase of the project will be dedicated to
identifying potential partners in the EaP countries. In a second phase the networks of the three European
business organisations will be invited to contribute with their expertise to the different activities that are
foreseen.
Contact: Birgit Arens ; Irina Tikhonova
East Invest website
India: EBTC expands its promotional footprint
This autumn, the European Business and Technology Centre’s schedule is fresh with updates and
activities! Additionally to the revamped EU Information Flyer, the Centre released for the first time a
Feedback Flyer, comprising a number of testimonials from EU Organisations having collaborated with or
experienced EBTC’s services. EBTC will also be present with two cleantech events in October, of which
one co-organised by the Dublin Chamber; the Trade and Investment Partnership Summit (TIPS) and an
EPO conference on Indo-EU ICT patents in November; as well as a conference on Internationalisation
organised by the Croatian Chamber in December.
Contact: EBTC Team in Brussels
EBTC Information Flyer (EU)
EBTC Feedback Flyer
Business & Investment Opportunities in India –
Dublin Chamber
Cleantech Scandinavia
Trade and Investment Partnership Summit
Indo-European Conference on ICT-related patents
New: webinars and factsheets on Brazilian Intellectual Property
The Mercosur IPR SME Helpdesk recently organised two webinars on the Brazilian Intellectual Property:
one on 8 October entitled “IP software protection: what the EU computer industry SMEs should know”, and
the second one to be conducted on 14 October on “IP key aspects in Brazilian Trade Fairs”. The
registration as well as the factsheets are available on the Helpdesk profile.
Contact: Paolo Baldan
Mercosur IPR SME Helpdesk website
“What can the business community bring to EU Enlargement?”
One week after the publication of the 2014 Enlargement strategy and progress reports by the European
Commission, EUROCHAMBRES will hold a conference on 15 October in Brussels to debate enlargement
issues of specific importance for the business community. The conference will provide an opportunity to
enhance the dialogue between the European institutions and business communities in both the EU and the
candidate/potential candidate countries and will highlight how the business community can contribute to
the enlargement process.
Contact: Juliette Loppé
Programme
Registration Form
Education, Training and Social
Affairs
EUROCHAMBRES delegation at Milan Job Summit
Attending the High Level Conference on Employment on 8 October in Milan – the third Job Summit
following editions in Berlin and Paris last year – Honorary President Leitl spoke in front of Heads of State
and Employment Ministers. He notably urged member states to dedicate considerable funds to SME
growth and to improve and develop apprenticeship schemes in Europe.
Contact: Bettine Gola
Milan Job Summit
Press Release 8 October
EUROCHAMBRES proposes Flagship initiative on apprenticeships
During a business breakfast on 25 September, Deputy President Martha Schultz presented a proposal for
a Flagship Initiative on apprenticeships within the framework of the Europe 2020 Strategy. By the end of
2020, 50% of vocational education students should undertake an apprenticeship. Such a flagship initiative
would build particularly on the Europe 2020 Country Specific Recommendations, the work of Cedefop, the
European Alliance for Apprenticeships and the Erasmus+ programme.
Contact: Bettine Gola
Press Release 25 September
EUROCHAMBRES’ proposal for a Flagship initiative on apprenticeships
Innovation: Trends and Tools
Energy/Climate 2030: final appeal to EU leaders
On 23-24 October, the European Council is expected to decide on the cornerstones of Europe’s climate
and energy policy until 2030. Ahead of this decisive summit, EUROCHAMBRES hosted a conference in
the European Parliament in order to reiterate its call for a pro-competitive energy and climate policy
framework. Chambers’ requests include a realistic and conditional greenhouse gas reduction target, a
market-based Emission Trading System, cost-effective support schemes for renewable energy and better
framework conditions for boosting energy efficiency in small and medium enterprises.
Contact: Michael Steurer
EUROCHAMBRES’ Position on the Commission’s
proposal for a 2030 policy framework on climate and
energy
Economic Affairs
Workshop on Finance for SMEs
On 3 November in Brussels, EUROCHAMBRES with the support of the European Economic and Social
Committee Employers’ Group, is organising a workshop on finance for small and medium enterprises
(SMEs). A group of discussants, together with the audience, will brainstorm on how to resolve problems
related to access to finance of businesses at different stages of development. Cases will be presented by
SMEs.
Contact: Iwona Mertin
Registration Form
EU Legislative Framework
Preparing for the new Commission
EUROCHAMBRES submitted a range of questions for Members of the European Parliament to pose to
candidates during the hearings for President Juncker’s new team of commissioners. The questions,
addressed to ten different candidate commissioners, reflect some of the key issues for the Chamber
network as we enter a new EU legislative term, such as completion of the single market, trade, European
Economic Diplomacy, vocational education & training, the energy 2030 framework and regulatory
reform. Building on these questions, EUROCHAMBRES will seek to meet key commissioners once their
appointment is confirmed and they that take up their new responsibilities.
Contact: Ben Butters
Questions submitted by EUROCHAMBRES for the
Commissioner hearings in the European Parliament
Where is the Think Small First principle?
EUROCHAMBRES is concerned that the “Think Small First” principle is hardly mentioned in the
Commission’s revised Impact Assessment (IA) Guidelines and strongly disapproves of the dilution of the
reference to the SME test, which should be a key component of the IA. This represents a backward step
from the current situation and is certainly not in line with the repeated commitments made by the
Commission to reinforce the application of the test and respond to the needs of SMEs. Similarly,
EUROCHAMBRES believes that the Commission’s consultation process should be more SMEfriendly. SMEs often are the largest group of businesses affected by new policy but the most difficult
group to involve in consultations for many reasons such as time, resources and language issues.
Contact: Typhaine Beaupérin-Holvoet
EUROCHAMBRES' Position on the Commission's
Stakeholder Consultation Guidelines
EUROCHAMBRES' Position on the Commission's
revised Impact Assessment Guidelines
news
October 2014
Special edition - European Parliament of Enterprises
European Parliament of Enterprises:
third edition, third success
The European Parliament was once again taken over by businesses on 16
October when the hemicycle in Brussels provided the forum for
entrepreneurs from 45 countries to express their views on a range of key
EU policy issues.
Participating in this unique model of EU economic democracy, business
men and women became Members of the European Parliament for one
day, debating and voting in real time on real topics. The proceedings were
structured around four topics of crucial concern to the European business
community: access to markets, skills to compete, finance for growth and
affordable, sustainable and secure energy supplies.
In his opening speech, Richard Weber, President of EUROCHAMBRES,
said: “As the EU enters a new five-year political cycle, let us look to the
future, not to the past. Let us make sure that we use the EPE as a
platform to send clear messages on how to make the EU a more
favourable place to do business.”
With the hemicycle full to capacity, businesses called for more dynamic
and effective EU and national policies that respond to their daily concerns,
such as:
- stronger European Economic Diplomacy, advocating and defending EU
businesses’ economic interests on global markets;
- more work-based learning schemes to ensure the availability of skilled
workers;
- tax regimes that are more equity investment friendly;
- a more flexible and innovation-based approach to increasing energy
efficiency.
The timing of the European Parliament of Enterprises could not have been
better, conveying specific recommendations for a business-friendly EU just
two weeks before the new Commission is due to take office and set out its
agenda of the new legislative cycle.
As with previous editions of the European Parliament of Enterprises, this
landmark event provided a valuable platform for entrepreneurs to express
their point of view. And as with previous editions, these points of view will
be conveyed to policy makers by EUROCHAMBRES in the weeks and
months to come.
(click on the pictures to
enlarge)
Contacts: Susete Sampaio (Press) & Sophie Devos-Gaillard (Event)
Press Release 17 October
Photos of the event
Results of votes
Introductory videos of the sessions
Vox Pop interviews with entrepreneurs
Live Tweet of the EPE
European Parliament of Enterprises' website
Session 1: Internationalisation
During this session, held in the presence of Christoph Leitl, Chairman of the
Global Chamber Platform, and Rifat Hisarcıklıoğlu, Deputy President of
EUROCHAMBRES and 2015 B20 Chairman, enterpreneurs discussed topics
such as global economic growth, free trade agreements, third markets and a
European Economic Diplomacy.
Is the EU Single Market sufficiently integrated, allowing your company to
operate and compete freely? 84% NO
With this negative vote, companies stress that the EU Single Market is not yet achieved. The slow
and sometimes incomplete implementation of directives, the inadequacy of certain instruments, the
persistence of some barriers to cross-border trade and investment contribute to such difficulties and
jeopardise a competitive economy.
Contact: Vincent Tilman
Should free trade negotiations also include social, environmental and ethical
standards to ensure a level playing field? 81% YES
The positive vote underlines that trade is about more than just tariff reductions. It shows that
businesses are not willing to compromise on social or environmental standards on the international
stage. EU trade policy must ensure that trading partners play by the same rules if they conclude trade
agreements with the EU.
Contact: Dominic Boucsein
Should the EU develop a stronger European Economic Diplomacy, advocating
and defending our common economic interests on global markets? 95% YES
With this resounding positive answer, companies accept the added value of a stronger European
voice to defend and promote their economic interests around the globe. Businesses call on the EU
and its Member States to pool resources and roll out an ambitious and coherent Economic
Diplomacy.
Contact: Philippe Adriaenssens
Should the EU protect its industry more strongly against trade distortions and
unfair competition, e.g. with tougher trade defence rules? 85% YES
The positive vote is a clear sign that Europe needs to do more to protect its enterprises against unfair
competition from third countries. The competitiveness of Europe depends on companies being able
to rely on a fair game. If we do not want trade liberalisation to be a one-way street, we need to
optimise and fully use the available framework of trade defence instruments.
Contact: Dominic Boucsein
Do you believe a free trade agreement with the US (TTIP) could benefit EU
companies? 81% YES
The vote emphasises the crucial importance of the TTIP for European entrepreneurs. It also proves
wrong those that claim that TTIP only benefits large multinationals, since 80% of voters were small
and medium enterprises (SMEs). Negotiators should move swiftly to deliver substantial progress,
taking into account the specific needs of SMEs.
Contact: Dominic Boucsein
Session 2: Skills
This session addressed the topics: vocational education and training, youth
unemployment and skills mismatch, in the presence of Joachim James Calleja,
Director of the European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training
(CEDEFOP).
Should member states undertake reforms necessary to ensure a strong
provision of work-based learning? 99% YES
This positive vote sends a strong message that reforms have to be put in place at national level to
reduce the skills mismatch. In acquiring work-related skills at the work place, students are better
prepared for the reality of their job and to meet the expectations of businesses.
Contact: Bettine Gola
Should the EU create a pan-European mobility programme for job-seekers in
order to fight youth unemployment? 93% YES
This positive vote illustrates that greater cross-border labour mobility could be a solution to temporary
high unemployment in one country and skills shortage in another, which would be to the socioeconomic benefit of the EU as a whole. The free mobility of people is one of the pillars of the EU
single market. With this vote the entrepreneurs affirm the central role of the EU in the field of labour
mobility.
Contact: Bettine Gola
Should more be done at EU level to strengthen the provision of apprenticeship
schemes across the member states? 95% YES
By voting ‘yes’ to this question, entrepreneurs confirm their interest and willingness to play an active
role in education and training. Businesses demand a fast development of quality apprenticeship
schemes. The EU can act as a facilitator and provide support to countries that lack experience in this
respect.
Contact: Bettine Gola
Should the EU encourage a better balance between academic and vocational
education? 97% YES
This positive vote illustrates that vocational skills are at the heart of business needs. Excellent
vocational skills build the foundation of Europe’s economy and can secure sustainable employment.
High tertiary education attainment does not prevent from high youth unemployment rates, as the
recent examples of Spain, Latvia and France illustrate.
Contact: Bettine Gola
Session 3: Finance
In this session, entrepreneurs expressed their concerns on financial issues,
ranging from access to finance to equity financing and to the persisting late
payments culture. Setting the scene: Baudouin Regout, Adviser and
Coordinator of Analysis Team at the Bureau of European Policy Advisers of
the European Commission.
Do you believe that national governments do enough to fix the problem of late
payments between public bodies and business? 85% NO
A majority of European entrepreneurs take the view that the regulation on late payments should be
stricter than it is now, while its implementation should be more disciplined. Despite the measures
contained in the revised Late Payment Directive, a late payment culture is still deeply engrained in
the public and private sectors.
Contact: Iwona Mertin
Should member states commit to a common EU SME guarantee instrument?
73% YES
The strong ‘yes’ vote shows that companies perceive guarantee instruments as an additional tool to
access finance. Pooling resources by member states to form new joint instruments would allow for
greater volume, leverage and thus value added for SMEs, e.g. via a European Guarantee Platform.
Contact: Iwona Mertin
Do you believe that access to finance has become more difficult due to
increased regulatory costs for the banking sector? 75% YES
The majority of ‘yes’ votes shows that some banks have introduced additional measures in order to
meet the capital requirements and heal their balance sheets. Taking into account the fact that 85% of
loans for businesses still come from banks, there is an urgent need to find a balance between a
sustainable financial sector and meeting the financial requirements of businesses.
Contact: Iwona Mertin
Should tax regimes be more equity investment friendly? 95% YES
This conclusive vote in favour of a more incentivising fiscal regime shows there is a need for
coordinated action at European level. The removal of double taxation on equity in some countries
would be one such measure. Despite acknowledgement that European tax regimes are generally not
in favour of equity, very little has been done.
Contact: Iwona Mertin
Does a lack of quantification of intangible assets hinder innovative businesses’
competitiveness and access to credit? 73% YES
Quantification of intangible assets can be a useful component in the fight for better access to finance,
especially in those countries most affected by the crisis. Many banks already implicitly evaluate
intangible assets when considering potential SME customers.
Contact: Iwona Mertin
Session 4: Energy
A key factor in the competitiveness of European businesses is the availability
of reliable and affordable energy. This topic, together with the discussion
around the EU's climate and energy policies was at the heart of the last
session of the event. In the presence of Georg Zachmann, Research Fellow at
Bruegel.
Should the EU only pursue ambitious climate change mitigation policies if other
major international economies make comparable commitments? 66% YES
A majority of entrepreneurs underline the need for a global response to climate change rather than a
unilateral EU one. Over 90% of worldwide emissions are produced abroad and unilateralism will
simply drive energy-intensive industries out of Europe, damaging both the EU’s economy and the
climate. Therefore, a new CO2-target must reflect to what extent a binding international climate
agreement is reached in 2015 and ratified by all of its signatories.
Contact: Michael Steurer
Do you believe that the competitiveness of energy- and emission-intensive
industries is sufficiently addressed in EU energy and climate policies? 75% NO
The negative vote confirms the confidence in the current measures to protect energy-and emissionintensive industries, like the carbon leakage legislation, which should be continued in the future policy
framework for 2030. Moreover, the outcome of the vote can be explained by the lack of policies that
address competitiveness aspects of the wider economy, while only focusing on specific sectors.
Contact: Michael Steurer
Should the internal market for energy be completed as soon as possible? 94%
YES
Entrepreneurs remind Member States that much still remains to be done to complete the internal
market for energy. An efficient, interconnected and transparent European internal energy market will
offer citizens and businesses secure and sustainable energy supplies at lowest possible costs.
Contact: Michael Steurer
Should the EU and member states devise a more cost-effective strategy for the
uptake of renewable energy? 97% YES
By voting yes, entrepreneurs show that the EU’s strategies to promote renewable energy have to be
reconsidered. Although nobody questions the importance to increase the share of “clean energy”, it is
critical to find a way to promote renewables in a more cost-effective manner. At the same time, the
EU should not waste any efforts on energy sources which have little or no potential to compete in the
free market in the foreseeable future.
Contact: Michael Steurer
Should the EU and member states devise a more flexible and innovation-based
approach to increase energy efficiency? 98% YES
The clear-yes vote confirms that practical support measures are the best and most direct way to
promote energy efficiency. Concrete and voluntary initiatives, addressing the economic needs of
businesses, must be multiplied and expanded.
Contact: Michael Steurer
Global Chamber Platform
Political instability to hamper growth in 2015, global business says
For the first time, the EPE also involved the members of the Global Chamber Platform (GCP), which
brings together 16 major national and trans-national Chamber organisations from the four corners of
the globe. The results of the Global Economic Survey 2015 were presented during the EPE session
on Internationalisation. Increasing political and social instability casts a shadow over growth
expectations for 2015, according to the GCP. Businesses in Europe, Latin America and Russia are
the most pessimistic.
Contact: Dirk Vantyghem
GCP Press Release 17 October
Global Economic Survey 2015
Media Partners' Corner
viEUws and EUROPOLITICS were media partners of the third European Parliament of Enterprises.
In an exclusive interview conducted by viEUws, José
Manuel Barroso, the outgoing President of the
European Commission, looks back at what has been
done in the past five years, and talks about what still
needs to be done to boost innovation, competitiveness
and business in the European Union.
viEUws' website
On the occasion of the EPE,
EUROPOLITICS published a special
supplement devoted to the main concerns of
European small and medium enterprises and
reflecting the topics of the event.
EUROPOLITICS' website
news
November 2014
Position
Event
Opportunity
Info
TTIP: an investment project for
SMEs worth more than EUR 300
billion
The Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP)
between the EU and the United States has the potential to be the
biggest trade and investment agreement in history, benefitting
small and medium enterprises (SMEs) considerably. Independent
studies have found that TTIP would lead to EU exports to the
U.S. rising by 28%, equivalent to an additional EUR 187 billion
worth of exports of EU goods and services in one single year.
In this context, much has been said and written on how to tailor
TTIP to the real needs of SMEs. This certainly includes the
elimination of tariffs, the simplification of customs procedures, or
an overall reduction of regulatory barriers. But this also has to
mean making rules of origin easier, facilitating the movement of
workers in areas crucial to SMEs, for instance by making it easier
for them to send a representative to the U.S., or by transferring
technicians for installation works, or setting up machineries.
Beyond the “pure trade” side of the future agreement, there is
another area of high interest for SMEs, which is the designated
‘SME chapter’ in TTIP. For small businesses, such a chapter
should be a real multiplier for the entire set of benefits that will be
created throughout the agreement. The chapter should facilitate
ways for SMEs to gain more knowledge about their counterparts,
as well as creating meaningful and targeted information points,
helping them achieve regulatory compliance at all levels of
government.
SMEs need targeted information, therefore a single productspecific online platform is vital in order for them to actually utilise
the potential gains from TTIP, 80% of which come from cutting
costs imposed by bureaucracy and regulations. This way, SMEs
can easily consult how to access, and operate within, the U.S.
and EU markets, including navigating through the maze of
federal and sub-federal regulations, standards and other
regulatory compliance requirements.
If I am a European SME, where am I supposed to find tailormade information on how to sell my products on the U.S
market? Tackling this bottle-neck to more market access is
precisely where a trade-supporting SME chapter can make a real
difference.
Contact: Dirk Vantyghem
Companies and
Entrepreneurship
Conference on Mediation for growth
In recent years EUROCHAMBRES has been promoting the use of mediation to tackle unsolved
disputes and lengthy judicial proceedings that bear high costs for businesses. Mediation as a
competitive tool for the European economy will be discussed at a EUROCHAMBRES event in the
European Parliament in Brussels on 10 December. Representatives from the business community,
mediation practitioners and policy makers will discuss the impact of a more systematic use of
mediation on the European economy. The conference, organised in the framework of the “Go to
Mediation!“ project co- funded by the European Union, will also be the opportunity to present the
results of a two-year research on the use of civil and commercial mediation in Europe.
Contact: Alexia Hengl
Programme of the event
Registration form
Go to Mediation! website
EUROCHAMBRES discusses economic growth in Greece
On 5 November in Athens, Secretary General Arnaldo Abruzzini intervened in the strategic
conference “Investments and Prospects for Economic Growth in Greece”, gathering Greek
Government Officials, members of the Opposition, senior executives and experts to discuss
strategies and insights to boost competitiveness and growth in key sectors of the Greek
economy. Mr Abruzzini stressed the need to encourage indigenous investments on projects which
are based on a logic of profitability, and assured the Chambers’ support in this respect.
Contact: Arnaldo Abruzzini
Conference website
European Parliament of Enterprises: tell us your views!
EUROCHAMBRES would like to thank the over 800 entrepreneurs from all across Europe who took
part and raised their voice in the European Parliament of Enterprises held on 16 October in
Brussels. Members of the European Parliament of Enterprises may express their remarks on the
event by completing a short satisfaction survey. It will help improve the next editions. Deadline: 17
November.
Contact: Sophie Devos-Gaillard
European Parliament of Enterprises satisfaction
survey
European Parliament of Enterprises website
International Relations and
Trade
5th EU-Indonesia Business Dialogue - 19 November, Jakarta
The EU-Indonesia Business Network (EIBN) will host the EU-Indonesia Business Dialogue (EIBD)
conference in Jakarta on 19 November, a unique opportunity for European businesses to evaluate
the potential of the Indonesian market and to speak with industry leaders at first hand. Covering
trade and investment related issues between the EU and Indonesia, executives from European and
Indonesian companies will discuss common recommendations towards the recently-elected
Indonesian Government as well as the new European Commission and raise awareness on the
Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). Participation is free of charge.
Contact: Irma Orlandi
EU-Indonesia Business Dialogue website
EU-Indonesia Business Network website
Cleantech Mission in South East Asia: pre-registrations open
EU companies operating in the cleantech sector and with an interest in the South East Asian market
may already sign up for the final EU-Business Avenues Mission in Cleantech, scheduled for 15-19
June 2015 in Singapore and Vietnam. The event presents an excellent opportunity to showcase EU
cleantech companies to an international audience, and offers a wide platform for
networking. Deadline for applications: 23 January 2015.
Contact: Irma Orlandi
Clean Technologies 2015 mission flyer
EU-Business Avenues registration
Chinese enterprises’ expansion in Europe explained in a report by EU SME
Centre
The outward foreign direct investment from Chinese multinational enterprises (MNEs) has been
growing noticeably in Europe since the last decade, presenting good business opportunities for
European companies. An improved understanding of the Chinese enterprises’ investment activities
can help European SMEs develop a better business strategy to win the opportunities. The EU SME
Centre published a report providing an analysis of the Chinese enterprises’ expansion in Europe and
policy recommendations for European governments.
Contact: Alexander Alles
Report: Chinese Outward Foreign Direct
Investment in the EU
EU SME Centre website
Market Access China – Who is Who?
When exporting products to China, EU companies have to work with different governmental
authorities along the way. The legislative requirements from those authorities in the pre-market
approval process are often difficult to find and understand. A new guideline by the EU SME Centre
China shows companies how to get a better understanding of the roles of government institutions
most relevant to the exporting business in China.
Contact: Alexander Alles
Market Access China – Who is who?
EU SME Centre website
EUROCHAMBRES at OECD Eurasia Business Forum
On 25 November, Secretary General Arnaldo Abruzzini will speak in the opening plenary of the
OECD Eurasia Business Forum in Paris, bringing together high-level representatives from the
Eurasia region, OECD member countries, academics, business leaders, international partner
organisations, civil society and experts to strengthen relations between the countries of the Eurasia
region and the OECD. The event is organised with the support of EUROCHAMBRES and the East
Invest programme.
Contact: Birgit Arens
Draft Agenda
OECD Eurasia Week website
East Invest website
EBTC and European Patent Office enhance cooperation on patents in India
On 7 November, EUROCHAMBRES signed a cooperation agreement with the European Patent
Office to promote the European patent system in India and to support technology transfer between
Europe and India. The cooperation programme will be implemented through the European Business
and Technology Centre (EBTC), coherently with EBTC’s efforts to assist European cleantech
enterprises on Intellectual Property issues in India through its IPR Helpdesk.
Contact: EBTC Team in Brussels
Press Release 7 November
EBTC website
MERCOSUR, China and ASEAN IPR SME Helpdesks Stakeholder Meeting –
Brussels, 19 November
The ASEAN, China and MERCOSUR IPR SME Helpdesks offer free advice, information and training
on the management and protection of intellectual property rights to small companies and
intermediaries, helping them prepare for IP challenges in the world’s strongest growth markets. The
Helpdesks are organising their annual Stakeholder Meeting in Brussels on 19 November, to give
European SMEs and BSOs the opportunity to discuss the IPR Helpdesks’ key achievements and
best practices and explore new ways to collaborate in the future.
Contact: Paolo Baldan
Agenda and registration
EUROMED Invest Academy – 12-14 November, Thessaloniki
The second EUROMED Invest Academy – co-organised by EUROCHAMBRES and the Heraklion
Chamber of Commerce and Industry – will take place on 12-14 November in Thessaloniki,
Greece. While business support organisations (BSOs) are going through important changes, this
Academy, which will focus on “new innovation networks and the role of BSOs”, will be an opportunity
to reflect on how traditional and new business networks can capitalise on each other’s experiences in
order to improve their business models, services and networks. The event is open to entrepreneurs
and business support organisations alike.
Contact: Juliette Loppé
EUROMED Invest Academy in Thessaloniki
website
Education, Training and Social
Affairs
Joint conference on skills forecasting with the Committee of the Regions
On 20 November, EUROCHAMBRES will hold a conference on “Forecasting and delivering skills on
regional level” at the Committee of the Regions. In the presence of President Richard Weber and the
President of the Committee of the Regions, Michel Lebrun, the event will focus on best practices in
skills forecasting and skills networks. It will also consider the role that EU policy might play in this
process and in ensuring that improved forecasting leads to improved skills matching.
Contact: Bettine Gola
Conference agenda
Innovation: Trends and Tools
Lima summit: EUROCHAMBRES calls for legally binding climate pact
Reacting on the European Council’s approval of the ambitious 2030 framework for climate and
energy, EUROCHAMBRES called on the EU to engage other major economies into an equally
ambitious response to global warming. The foundation for a much-needed global agreement will be
laid at the climate summit in Lima (Peru), taking place on 1-12 December. Legally binding
commitments by all major emitters are the only possible way to keep global temperature rise by the
end of this century below 2°C and to create the much needed level-playing field for European
businesses.
Contact: Michael Steurer
Press Release 24 October
Economic Affairs
Businesses still concerned by late payments
On 18 November, EUROCHAMBRES will speak at an event on late payments organised by the
European Commission, bringing in the voice of businesses to indicate still existent problems and
challenges related to maintaining financial liquidity. This will be an opportunity to reiterate the
ongoing concerns of the business community regarding late payments, not only from public
administrations to businesses but also between businesses themselves.
Contact: Iwona Mertin
European Commission Late Payment Information
Campaign
30max website
Brainstorming on finance for SMEs
On 3 November, EUROCHAMBRES in cooperation with the European Economic and Social
Committee’s Employers’ Group held a workshop dedicated to Finance for SMEs. Several small
business owner-managers participated to present their experience in trying to access different forms
of finance at different stages in the business cycle. A group of discussants, together with the
audience, worked on how to resolve problems related to access to finance giving the
recommendations to the EU institutions as well.
Contact: Iwona Mertin
Photos of the event
Press Release 4 November
news
November 2014
Position
Event
Opportunity
Info
EUROCHAMBRES conference on Mediation (Brussels, 10 December 2014).
From left to right: Cosimo Maria Ferri, Italian State Secretary for Justice; Sergio Cofferati, Member of the European
Parliament; Secretary General Arnaldo Abruzzini and Sajjad Karim, Member of the European Parliament.
Mediation: a tool for growth
At a high level conference on mediation held in the European Parliament on 10 December,
EUROCHAMBRES highlighted mediation as a tool for economic growth and called on policy
makers to promote mediation as an efficient means of alternative dispute resolution (ADR).
A recent study estimates that annual cost savings would be between EUR 15 billion and EUR 40
billion and annual time savings would equate to 8 million years (!) if mediation systematically
preceded any trial in civil disputes.
“A lack of awareness about the benefits of mediation leads to huge amounts of money being
spent by businesses on court proceedings that could otherwise be reinvested in the European
economy,” said Arnaldo Abruzzini, Secretary General of EUROCHAMBRES. “But it it is not just
about financial and time costs; it’s also about relationship costs. Lengthy legal proceedings mean
hundreds of thousands of broken commercial relationships.”
About mediation
Mediation is a structured process whereby two or more parties attempt, on a voluntary basis, to
reach an agreement on the settlement of their dispute with the assistance of a mediator. This
process may be initiated by the parties themselves, suggested or ordered by a court, or
prescribed by national law. If successful, mediation allows parties to preserve their business
relationship and to find a win-win resolution to the dispute.
Despite the proven efficiency of mediation, businesses remain cautious about using it. Less than
1% of parties in conflict currently refer their case to a mediator. Size matters: small and medium
sized enterprises (SMEs) have less knowledge and experience in using ADR than large
companies. There is also a huge discrepancy between Member States as to the popularity of
mediation. EUROCHAMBRES believes that the EU institutions must help address these barriers.
Go To Mediation!
The conference was also an opportunity to share the final results of the “Go to Mediation” project,
for which the platform www.gotomediation.eu was developed with the objective to provide a
mediation clearing house to businesses involved in a cross-border conflict. It assists businesses
in finding the most appropriate dispute resolution centre in Europe.
Contact: Vincent Tilman ; Alexia Hengl
Press Release 10 December
Video message of Věra Jourová, European Commissioner for Justice, Consumers and Gender
Equality
Go to Mediation! website
Companies and
Entrepreneurship
Network of SME Envoys plan for 2015
EUROCHAMBRES took part in the 25-26 November meeting of SME Envoys at which priorities were
discussed for 2015. It seems from this discussion that the SME Envoys are determined to cover
everything of concern to the small business community, so EUROCHAMBRES will continue to
encourage the Commission to focus on just two or three key issues per year. One of those issues
that should feature next year was already kicked off on 26 November when the Envoys merged their
meeting with the Enterprise Policy Group to consider the digital single market.
Contact: Typhaine Beaupérin-Holvoet
Network of SME Envoys website
International Relations and
Trade
EU SME Centre to continue business support in China until 2018
Following the success of the first phase, the EU SME Centre in China officially launched its second
phase of operations, having secured funding from the European Union for another four years. The
Centre will continue promoting market access for European small and medium sized enterprises
(SMEs) via market intelligence information, webinars, trainings, workshops, hot-desking and other
tailor made solutions.
Contact: Alexander Alles
Press Release 27 November
EU SME Centre website
East Invest 2 exploratory mission to the Caucasus
The East Invest 2 project team visited the Caucasus countries (Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia) in the
period 23 November-6 December for an exploratory mission that would lay the ground for further
activities in the programme. The team members met with national public authorities and European
delegation representatives as well as with business support organisations and SME associations
from the three countries.
Contact: Birgit Arens ; Irina Tikhonova
East Invest website
Education, Training and Social
Affairs
President Weber meets Commissioner Navracsics
On 4 December, President Richard Weber and Deputy President Martha Schultz met Tibor
Navracsics, European Commissioner in charge of education, culture, youth and sport. On the list of
issues to discuss were most importantly early school leaving, basic competences, higher Vocational
Education and Training and university-business cooperation. The EUROCHAMBRES delegation
presented Chamber activities in these fields, such as professional orientation programmes and dual
universities.
Contact: Bettine Gola
Photos of the meeting
Joint Action Plan with the Committee of the Regions
On 20 November, EUROCHAMBRES and the Committee of the Regions launched a Joint Action
Plan to strengthen their cooperation in the fields of skills, entrepreneurship, access to finance and
better regulation. The Joint Action Plan was launched at an event on “Forecasting and delivering
skills at regional level” in the presence of the two organisations Presidents, Richard Weber and
Michel Lebrun.
Contact: Bettine Gola
Press Release 20 November
Innovation: Trends and Tools
EUROCHAMBRES addresses SME energy efficiency at IEA workshop in Paris
On 27 November, the International Energy Agency (IEA) and stakeholders from OECD member and
partner countries discussed proven and innovative practices in stimulating energy efficiency in
SMEs. Based on the experience gained from numerous Chamber projects, EUROCHAMBRES
contributed by pointing out the needs of SMEs in terms of programmes, support and financing. The
findings of the workshop will feed into an IEA Policy Pathway report providing actionable guidance,
best practice measures and case studies to policy makers around the globe.
Contact: Michael Steurer
IEA policy pathway series
“Smart Energy for Growth” brochure
Economic Affairs
EUROCHAMBRES at Crowdfunding Convention
On 11-12 December, EUROCHAMBRES will participate in the European Crowdfunding Network’s
Crowdfunding Convention in Paris. This is a reference event for the crowdfunding and early stage
investment industry in Europe. During this event, EUROCHAMBRES will moderate a roundtable on
Innovation & Start-ups.
Contact: Iwona Mertin
European Crowdfunding Network’s Crowdfunding
Convention
InvestHorizon project kicks off
On 3 November, EUROCHAMBRES in cooperation with the European Economic and Social
Committee’s Employers’ Group held a workshop dedicated to Finance for SMEs. Several small
business owner-managers participated to present their experience in trying to access different forms
of finance at different stages in the business cycle. A group of discussants, together with the
audience, worked on how to resolve problems related to access to finance giving the
recommendations to the EU institutions as well.
Contact: Iwona Mertin
EU Investment Plan rightly focuses on private investment
EUROCHAMBRES praised the focus on stimulating private investment contained in the EUR 315
billion “Investment Plan for Europe” presented by European Commission President Jean-Claude
Juncker on 26 November. However, the Commission must work in synergy with existing EU
initiatives to create additional spill overs and effectively cure the economic malaise.
Contact: Iwona Mertin
Press Release 26 November
European businesses cautiously optimistic for 2015
Over 60,000 European businesses expressed cautious optimism for 2015 as part of the latest
EUROCHAMBRES Economic Survey (EES) presented on 4 December. But entrepreneurs still
highlight low domestic demand and unfavourable general economic conditions as major challenges
ahead.
Contact: Iwona Mertin
EES 2015 report
Press Release 1 December
Infographic
Finance for SMEs: report available
The report on the 3 November EUROCHAMBRES ‘Finance for SMEs’ workshop has been produced,
outlining the main issues raised and recommendations made. The findings were discussed by
President Richard Weber, with Jonathan Hill, European Commissioner for Financial Stability,
Financial Services and Capital Markets Union, during their meeting on 4
December. EUROCHAMBRES will feed the outcomes from this workshop into the new
Commission’s reflections on a Capital Markets Union and how to unlock capital around Europe.
Contact: Iwona Mertin
Report on “Finance for SMEs”
EU Legislative Framework
Smart Regulation: encouraging political stances
The 4-5 December Competitiveness Council sent a firm signal in favour of a smart regulation agenda,
which delivers tangible results. This strong stance from the Council is encouraging, as are the recent
Parliament Motion for a Resolution on impact assessments and the early messages from
Commission Vice President Frans Timmermans. Concrete actions are now eagerly awaited such as
the preservation of the SME test in the Commission’s impact assessment guidelines.
Contact: Typhaine Beaupérin-Holvoet
Press Release 4 December
EUROCHAMBRES’ position on the Commission’s revised Impact Assessment Guidelines
Discussions on internal market with Competitiveness Council ministers
EUROCHAMBRES took part in a pre-Competitiveness Council discussion with a group of ministers
and secretaries of state on the digital single market on 3 December. EUROCHAMBRES highlighted
the need for a single market that is fit for the millions of existing and future micro businesses that
trade only online and do so across borders. The importance of increasing the Services Directive’s
impact was also underlined and will be something that EUROCHAMBRES will be dedicating more
time to over the coming months.
Contact: Typhaine Beaupérin-Holvoet