EU aims to break barriers, boost global competitiveness

February 11, 2026 (MLN): European Union leaders are intensifying efforts to revive the bloc’s struggling economy, with a strong focus on improving competitiveness and removing internal barriers that hinder growth across the 27-member bloc.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen urged swift action to help European companies access capital and scale up operations ahead of high-level discussions on strengthening the EU economy, as reported by APP.

She stressed that businesses require immediate financing support to compete effectively with counterparts in the United States and China.

Von der Leyen highlighted that fragmentation within the EU’s internal market remains a major obstacle, describing the current system as excessively divided and inefficient.

She emphasized the need for collective progress among all 27 member states but noted that if unanimity proves difficult, “enhanced cooperation” among willing countries could provide a way forward.

The renewed urgency comes amid mounting geopolitical and economic pressures, including trade disruptions and tariff threats from US President Donald Trump, as well as broader global uncertainties.

These developments have heightened concerns about Europe’s economic resilience and global standing.

A central issue identified by EU officials is the difficulty European companies face in accessing capital compared to American firms, limiting their ability to grow and innovate.

Addressing this gap is seen as critical to strengthening the bloc’s global competitiveness.

Von der Leyen also called for stepping up production within Europe and expanding trade partnerships with reliable global partners.

Following recent agreements with Mercosur and India, the EU is pursuing further trade deals with Australia, Thailand, the Philippines and the United Arab Emirates.

Another key proposal under discussion is the idea of granting preference to European companies in strategic sectors.

Von der Leyen backed the concept of European preference as a tool to reinforce the continent’s industrial base, while cautioning against applying a uniform approach across all industries.

France has been leading the push for such measures, although some member states, including Sweden, have expressed concerns about potential protectionism and urged the Commission to proceed carefully.

In addition, the European Commission plans to introduce the so-called “28th regime,” or “EU Inc,” next month.

The voluntary framework would establish a unified set of rules for businesses operating across the EU, independent of national systems, with the aim of reducing market fragmentation and easing cross-border operations.

Alongside these initiatives, Brussels is advancing efforts to cut regulatory burdens that businesses say make operations more difficult.

However, critics argue that scaling back regulations could weaken important climate-related legislation.

As EU leaders gather to deliberate on these proposals, capital access, market integration and industrial strategy are expected to dominate discussions on how to reposition Europe as a stronger global economic force.

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