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Joint statement on modernising customs to enhance global trade

24 Jan 2025
All Committees
Customs & Trade Facilitation

Ahead of International Customs Day 2025, AmCham EU is reaffirming our commitment to advancing customs efficiency. In alignment with this year’s theme, we are emphasising the critical need for efficient IT systems, digital solutions and public-private partnerships to streamline global trade processes. These advancements, coupled with investments in workforce training and cutting-edge technologies like AI, will empower customs authorities to facilitate legitimate trade while securing borders. Learn why balanced regulatory frameworks, partnerships and technological advancements are needed to tackle future challenges and make the global trade ecosystem smoother in the joint statement. 

Businesses’ role in keeping transatlantic dialogue open

24 Jan 2025
All Committees

The transatlantic relationship is the most integrated in the world, accounting for 16 million jobs on both sides of the Atlantic and one third of global GDP. To stress the importance of this partnership, Malte Lohan, CEO, AmCham EU joined a panel at Boeing’s New Year Reception on Thursday, 23 January. While there may be uncertainty about the future, Mr Lohan underlined there are plenty of areas for cooperation to advance the relationship going forward. From his view, business has an integral role to play to make sure dialogue between Europe and the US remains open so that both regions continue to reap the immense benefits of the transatlantic economy. 

Highlighting the importance of close EU-US trade relations

21 Jan 2025
All Committees
Customs & Trade Facilitation
Trade & External Affairs

On Thursday, 16 January, Micol Bertolini, Associate Policy Manager represented AmCham EU at a panel organised by Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Europe and the Bundesverband der Deutschen Industrie (BDI). The topic of discussion? EU-US trade relations. Ms Bertolini spoke about why now, with a new administration in the White House, close transatlantic ties are crucial to overcoming shared challenges. With 16 million jobs on both sides of the Atlantic, a strong transatlantic partnership, based on shared values and interests is needed for growth and security for both regions. With EU-US relations entering a new phase, find out how our members see the relationship evolving.

American companies in Europe brace for tougher transatlantic business climate, survey finds

20 Jan 2025
All Committees
Transatlantic

As President Donald Trump takes office, a new survey of American companies in Europe finds that nine in ten anticipate a worsened EU-US trade and investment relationship. Respondents also have a pessimistic outlook on anticipated policy changes, with two-thirds expecting US policies to have a negative impact on their operations in Europe in the coming years. This concern applies to policies on both sides of the Atlantic. When asked the same question about announced EU policies, a majority (52%) also predicted a negative impact. However, 28% expected EU policies to have a ‘somewhat’ or ‘very’ positive influence on their European operations.

Overcoming the fragmentation of the NIS2 transposition

20 Jan 2025
All Committees
Digital Economy

The NIS2 Directive has the potential to be a cornerstone of the EU’s cybersecurity strategy, driving improved security and resilience across Member States. However, fragmentation in national approaches risks undermining the Directive’s objectives and creating unnecessary burdens for businesses, particularly those operating across borders. For the Directive to succeed, consistency in transposition and alignment on shared standards must be prioritised. By addressing the implementation challenges, the EU can not only strengthen its cybersecurity posture but also create an environment conducive to innovation, investment and growth in the digital age. 

AmCham EU x Brussels Binder: partnering in advancing diversity and inclusion across Europe

15 Jan 2025
All Committees
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

A stronger, more resilient Europe is built by empowering diverse perspectives and ensuring different voices shape its future together. At a time of growing polarisation in public discourse, we believe that broadening the spectrum of views shaping EU policies is more important than ever. That’s why AmCham EU is joining forces with the Brussels Binder. Through the partnership, we will continue to promote representation in policymaking, including by working with the Brussels Binder on key areas of focus around featuring diverse voices during panels and events, sharing best practices, engaging across socio-economic backgrounds and empowering our own experts. Together, we can help advance a more inclusive and equitable Europe that delivers for its citizens and businesses.

Welcome to our new members

15 Jan 2025
All Committees

We are delighted to announce our membership has grown in the last quarter of 2024 and at the beginning of 2025. AbbVie, AP Wireless, GE Vernova, Kraft Heinz, PepsiCo and Wabtec have been approved as new members. We wish a warm welcome to our new members and look forward to working closely on our advocacy efforts in the future.  

Leadership update

15 Jan 2025
All Committees

AmCham EU is pleased to announce recent election results from the end of 2024 and beginning of the year and welcome these new and re-elected leaders. We wish successful terms to Katharina Bryan (Amazon), Sophie Claessens (Amazon), Bernd Ewers (RTX) and Claudia Selli (AT&T INC.). The Secretariat would also like to thank the member who is stepping down for the extraordinary work she completed during her term: Sabine Van Depoele (Fedex). More details about the leadership changes mentioned above can be found here.  

Planting the seeds of net zero

15 Jan 2025
All Committees
Environment

The European Commission’s proposal for a 2040 greenhouse gas emissions target underscores the EU’s commitment to climate neutrality. Now just months after COP29 and with 2024 being the hottest year in recorded history, urgent action is required. With a proposed 90% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, this vision depends on strategic investments in low-carbon technologies and regulatory simplification. But the first step on this journey is achieving the 2030 targets, which require deeper collaboration between policymakers and industry. Only by fostering innovation and creating an attractive investment environment will the EU lead the global transition to a sustainable and resilient economy. Learn why industry involvement is essential to maintaining EU competitiveness during this transition.

Recommendations to the Polish Presidency of the Council of the European Union

9 Jan 2025
All Committees

Poland assumes the Presidency of the Council of the European Union at a time when the EU must course correct. It is time to move away from a heavy regulatory agenda and protectionist trends and towards an environment conducive to investment and innovation. American companies are committed to working with the Polish Presidency to support this mission. In this context, AmCham EU’s Recommendations to the Polish Presidency of the Council of the European Union outlines a wide range of proposals to boost the region’s competitiveness, resilience and global standing. 

Mark Gitenstein and Björn Seibert receive AmCham EU Transatlantic Business Award

9 Jan 2025
All Committees

AmCham EU is delighted to announce that The Honorable Mark Gitenstein, US Ambassador to the EU, and Björn Seibert, Head of Cabinet of the President, European Commission, were jointly presented with the AmCham EU Transatlantic Business Award 2024. The award formally recognises their exceptional efforts to enhance transatlantic cooperation. They worked very closely over the last three years to ensure strong alignment on both sides of the Atlantic. As individuals, they built an important culture of dialogue and trust that was critical to advancing common priorities in the EU and the US. Together, they played an instrumental role in the united transatlantic response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the development of the EU-US Data Privacy Framework. 

Simplifying the EU’s chemical regulation framework

6 Jan 2025
All Committees

The expected revision of the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals Regulation (REACH) this year has the potential to increase consistency and predictability for both the public and private sectors. But for the Commission to achieve this, it must strike the right balance between ensuring a high degree of safety while decreasing the regulatory burden on companies. By prioritising science-based risk assessments, avoiding broad grouping of substances without clear data and enhancing regulatory predictability, REACH can foster competitiveness while supporting the EU’s Green Deal objectives.  

Giving back this holiday season: AmCham EU donates to those in need

16 Dec 2024
All Committees

On Friday, 13 December, AmCham EU continued its tradition of hosting members, staff, family and friends for an afternoon of giving back to the community. During the event, we packed boxes with nonperishable items for The Samaritans’ Shoe-Box project, which have been delivered to Eglise du Finistere in Brussels. They will now be distributed to those in need around the city. Thanks to everyone who joined! 

Kicking off better lives for children

12 Dec 2024
All Committees

Since 2012, the Feyenoord Foundation’s Street League has inspired young people in Rotterdam South through football, promoting teamwork and self-confidence among children aged seven to 13. Supported by LyondellBasell since 2020, this programme addresses the needs of an area where nearly 30% of people live in poverty. Beyond sports, children who participate in Street League earn points by volunteering to build skills and community spirit. Along with €200,000 in annual support from LyondellBasell, colleagues also volunteer and help shape the foundation’s impact. Learn how the company is contributing to a healthier, more connected community on Invested in Europe.  

Bolstering Europe’s defence base through transatlantic cooperation

11 Dec 2024
All Committees
Security, Defence & Space

With Europe facing a number of security challenges and an uncertain geopolitical landscape, now is the time for policymakers to bolster its defence industrial base. But how can they navigate the task of balancing calls for reduced dependencies while maximising the potential of working with likeminded partners? On Tuesday, 10 December, Andrius Kubilius, Commissioner for Defence and Space, European Commission and decision makers joined us to discuss strengthening Europe’s resilience and security. The Commissioner highlighted three areas of focus around supporting Ukraine, enhancing the EU’s readiness and securing defence financing. Transatlantic cooperation will be essential to achieving a more secure Europe, here’s how we can create a more competitive, innovative and resilient defence industry. 

Putting inclusion on the menu

10 Dec 2024
All Committees
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

On Monday, 9 December, AmCham EU hosted a high-level diversity and inclusion to mark the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. The lunch took place at 65 degrés, a restaurant that employs staff with disabilities, and featured a keynote speech from Mario Nava, Director-General, Directorate-General for Employment, Social Affairs and Inclusion, European Commission. The conversations over lunch allowed businesses to showcase to decision-makers examples of how they are driving a more inclusive society and how partnerships between public and private sectors can support this important work. 

How the EU-Mercosur trade agreement will spur growth

9 Dec 2024
All Committees
Trade & External Affairs

AmCham EU congratulates the EU and Mercosur on finalising negotiations for the landmark partnership agreement between the two regions, 25 years since the negotiations started. This deal is the largest ever concluded by the EU, as well as the first trade agreement signed between Mercosur and a major trading partner. This deal will deepen economic ties, unlocking a consumer market of 284 million people for companies in Europe. The agreement will also further facilitate trade in goods and services that is already worth over €159 billion annually. Through swift ratification, both parties can deliver the economic recovery and development that is much needed on both sides of the Atlantic. 

Navigating uncertainty with the Public Affairs Council

5 Dec 2024
All Committees

At the European Digital Advocacy Summit 2024, Thibaut L’Ortye, Senior Director of Public Affairs, AmCham EU spoke on how businesses help maintain stability and overcome challenges in turbulent times. Organised by the Public Affairs Council on Wednesday, 4 December, Mr L’Ortye highlighted the importance of a principle-based, non-partisan approach to communication, prioritising clarity while acknowledging complexity. By taking these steps, organisations can demonstrate long-term consistency on issues and build trust. With transparent, value-driven advocacy, industry can increasingly become important partners in addressing today’s most pressing challenges. 

Where does tax policy fit into the competitiveness puzzle?

4 Dec 2024

What role does EU tax policy play in driving growth? That’s what we found out on Tuesday, 3 December during a panel discussion. Our speakers looked at the benefits of streamlined taxation systems and the role they could play in Europe’s competitiveness. They began by examining the origins of tax policy across Europe, its role in revenue-raising and other policy goals. Afterwards, the panel looked at specific types of taxes, focusing on the role that VAT plays in establishing a sustainable and resilient tax base, on top of which policymakers can use other types of taxes and benefits to promote competitiveness and other goals. 

Navigating sustainability in Serbia

3 Dec 2024
All Committees
Environment
Transport, Energy & Climate

On Monday, 2 December, Anastasia Lajri, Policy Adviser, AmCham EU, spoke at AmCham Serbia’s Responsible Business Dialogue. The discussion focused on the EU's sustainability reporting landscape and the extraterritorial reach of policies. Ms Lajri discussed the impact of these legislations on non-EU companies with a significant EU presence. She recommended harmonising reporting frameworks to ensure alignment with international standards to facilitate investment in Europe. With clear compliance guidelines, feedback systems and assessments, the EU can achieve its green ambitions.

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