The health crisis we face today is an unprecedented challenge for our society. American companies have taken immediate action to not only protect their employees, support communities in Europe, and around the world, but also to develop innovative solutions to address the global emergency. At the same time, AmCham EU member companies are striving to preserve business continuity in a safe and responsible manner.
Take a look at some of their stories.
The health crisis we face today is an unprecedented challenge for our society. American companies have taken immediate action to not only protect their employees, support communities in Europe, and around the world, but also to develop innovative solutions to address the global emergency. At the same time, AmCham EU member companies are striving to preserve business continuity in a safe and responsible manner.
Take a look at some of their stories.
Healthcare companies are using their expertise to develop COVID-19 vaccine candidates as well as medicines that can be used in prevention and management of serious consequences related to COVID-19. Many of them have also significantly increased their production of medicines, medical devices and personal protective equipment.
Additional resources for supporting health workers in the front lines are also contributed by companies that have not traditionally been active in the healthcare sector. Many have found creative ways of contributing their skills and infrastructures, by re-purposing their facilities and technologies. For example, companies with 3D printing technologies have begun to produce face shields; producers of spirits, perfumes and cosmetics are contributing to the production of hand sanitiser; transport companies are utilising their aircraft and vehicle fleets to transport equipment to areas in need. New technological solutions to track, map and use computing capabilities are continuously developed to support communities, researchers and governments to address and better understand some of the impacts of COVID-19.
Finally, to support global relief efforts companies have pledged to support the United Nations COVID-19 Solidarity Response Fund, and other similar initiatives, created to address communities in need and the requirements of healthcare workers on the frontlines. Companies are also creating grants and programmes to assist small businesses likely to be impacted most in this crisis.
Tackling this global pandemic, and its health and socio-economic effects, requires strong cooperation between government, business and civil society. We all have a role to play. Find out more from our COVID-19 portal.
:focal())
Developing advanced artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities is central to Europe’s digital ambitions. With a new €175 million investment, Workday is reinforcing this priority by establishing an AI Centre of Excellence in Dublin. Building on its long-standing research and development presence, the company will expand product development and create more than 200 specialised roles. Workday is also deepening its commitment to skills, partnering with national training networks and universities to equip employees with cutting-edge AI expertise. Through these collaborations, Workday is helping to drive innovation, strengthen Europe’s digital competitiveness and support the next generation of AI talent. Discover more on Invested in Europe.
:focal())
EU Member States’ decision to approve the EU-Mercosur free trade agreement is a major victory for the EU’s free trade agenda. For companies in the EU, the agreement promises to support deeper integration of value chains and facilitate access to a market of 284 million consumers. This will contribute to more resilient and diversified supply chains, including access to critical raw materials essential for the EU’s economic security and industrial growth.
AmCham EU praises the European Commission for its work with Member States to ensure the deal benefits all sectors of the EU economy. By concluding Mercosur’s first trade agreement with a major global partner, the EU demonstrates its commitment to open and rules-based trade. The European Parliament must now approve the agreement without delay, so that – after 25 years of negotiations – businesses and citizens can start benefiting from this deal.
Reacting to the news, Malte Lohan, CEO, AmCham EU, stressed the importance of the agreement: ‘The Council’s decision is a timely one. In today’s world, the EU needs to boost its economic competitiveness and maintain its free trade leadership. The EU-Mercosur agreement ticks both boxes’.
‘The business case is clear; the geopolitical case is clear. It is now the Parliament’s job to see the agreement across the finish line’, he added.
:focal())
The European Council’s decision to postpone its vote on concluding the EU-Mercosur free trade agreement (FTA) is a missed strategic opportunity that threatens the EU’s credibility as a reliable partner. After more than 20 years of negotiations, the EU is once again delaying one of its most ambitious and strategic trade agreements.
The EU-Mercosur FTA’s economic benefits are clear. At a time when strengthening competitiveness, economic growth and partnerships should be paramount, the FTA provides access to a market of 284 million consumers – reducing tariff and non-tariff barriers and supporting integrated supply chains.
Beyond its economic benefits, the EU-Mercosur FTA is also an important geopolitical tool. It would anchor a long-term strategic partnership with a key region and reinforce the EU’s role as a credible advocate of rules-based trade. Amid heightened geopolitical rivalry, postponement weakens the EU’s standing and its ability to conclude ambitious FTAs elsewhere.
The EU cannot afford further delays. The EU-Mercosur FTA is vital for the region’s competitiveness, resilience and global credibility. The European Council must promptly return to this file and conclude this FTA in January.
Insights and advocacy driving Europe’s policy agenda. Our priorities support growth, innovation and a stronger transatlantic economy.
Connecting business and policymakers to strengthen the voice of American companies in Europe.