On 30 June, the Institute for Competitiveness (I-Com) presented the final report of the Cantiere Europa+ initiative, Advancing Europe’s Competitiveness, at the European Parliament in Brussels.
Building on the foundations laid by the Draghi Report, the Competitiveness Compass and the previous Cantiere Europa report, I-Com’s roadmap provides a comprehensive overview of the key sectors currently undergoing transformation or requiring particular attention to strengthen Europe’s competitiveness. Each topic was explored through a dedicated policy event, enabling further input from EU and national policymakers, industry representatives and civil society. Drawing on these discussions and analyses, the report puts forward a set of policy recommendations aimed at enhancing Europe’s competitiveness.
Structured into three chapters, the report first examines two key legislative initiatives shaping the digital landscape: the Digital Omnibus and the Digital Networks Act. While both initiatives have the potential to deliver significant improvements to the EU’s digital regulatory framework and infrastructure, their design and implementation will require careful consideration. The chapter also discusses the forthcoming Tech Sovereignty Package, which builds on the objectives of strengthening Europe’s digital resilience, innovation capacity and technological leadership.
The second chapter focuses on energy and industrial decarbonisation, while also examining the main challenges and policy options facing strategic sectors such as transport and pharmaceuticals.
The third and final chapter analyses the future of the EU’s long-term budget, with particular attention to the European Competitiveness Fund and Cohesion Policy as key drivers of sustainable economic growth and social cohesion. It concludes by highlighting water as one of the European Union’s most strategic resources. Beyond being essential for everyday life, water underpins every economic sector and plays a critical role in climate resilience and competitiveness. Despite its strategic importance, however, the sector continues to suffer from chronic underinvestment and insufficient policy attention.
To access the final report, please click below:
