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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.

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.  

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.

Digging deeper into the transatlantic relationship with AmCham Luxembourg

3 Dec 2024
All Committees

On Wednesday 27 November, Thibaut L’Ortye, Senior Director of Public Affairs, AmCham EU presented The Transatlantic Economy 2024 report at AmCham Luxembourg’s Transatlantic Trade and Investment event. Thomas Barrett, US Ambassador to Luxembourg highlighted the strong ties between Luxembourg and the US, with over 70,000 people employed thanks to the partnership. During his section, Mr L’Ortye presented the results of the report, with a particular focus on the resiliency of the EU-US relationship. Despite differing views on certain issues, the transatlantic partnership remains the most integrated in the world, directly responsible for 16 million jobs and one third of global GDP. 

New College of Commissioners awarded mandate to deliver on competitiveness

27 Nov 2024
All Committees

AmCham EU congratulates the new College of Commissioners on its election. The College now has the responsibility to strengthen the Single Market’s attractiveness as an investment destination – and there is no time to waste. The GDP and innovation gap between the EU and other leading economies is widening, and in 2023, foreign direct investment into Europe fell by 4%.

Advancing opportunities in digital trade

26 Nov 2024
All Committees

On Thursday, 21 November, AmCham EU, DIGITALEUROPE and the Swedish National Board of Trade held a roundtable discussion on the challenges and opportunities in digital trade. The discussion focused on progress in standardisation and critical technologies, highlighting the value of EU-US cooperation under the Trade and Technology Council (TTC). Participants emphasised the significance of ongoing e-commerce negotiations and the WTO moratorium, as well as aligning digital trade policies to tackle emerging priorities. Strengthening partnerships with like-minded allies through free trade agreements and digital partnerships is essential for fostering innovation and growth. Collaboration remains pivotal for shaping the future of global digital trade. 

Upskilling Europe: bridging the growing skills gap

26 Nov 2024
All Committees

Europe faces a growing mismatch between workers’ skills and companies’ needs, particularly in the digital economy. Only 27% of the EU population reported above-basic digital skills in 2021, according to Eurostat. Addressing this gap requires collaboration between governments, businesses and educational institutions. AmCham EU’s Attractiveness of Europe: Agenda for Action 2024-2029 highlights practical solutions, such as fostering industry-education partnerships, incentivising upskilling initiatives and prioritising science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) training. As detailed on AmCham EU's Invested in Europe website, American companies are leading by example, with initiatives like Apple’s Developer Academy in Italy, Oracle’s inclusive STEM programmes in Spain and AES’ technical training partnership in Bulgaria. Discover more in our latest blog post. 

Using collaboration to tackle global trade challenges

26 Nov 2024
All Committees

On Friday, 22 November Malte Lohan, CEO, AmCham EU spoke at the European Commission’s high-level forum on global non-market overcapacity. Organised by Inspire, Debate, Engage and Accelerate Action, the internal advisory hub to European Commission President von der Leyen, Mr Lohan underscored the critical importance of addressing global trade challenges. With companies facing increasingly stringent regulatory requirements in Europe that their counterparts in non-market economies are not held to, he emphasised the need for a proactive competitiveness roadmap and an ambitious trade agenda. He also underscored the importance of a unified EU-US response. By working via platforms such as the Trade and Technology Council and the WTO, both Europe and the US can collaborate on shared challenges, including overcapacity.

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