In a stunning development that could reshape the European Union, President Ursula von der Leyen has unveiled an audacious plan for “One Europe, One Market“ by 2027, aiming to forge a unified economic powerhouse amid global challenges. This bold roadmap, discussed at a high-stakes EU leaders’ meeting, promises to slash red 𝓉𝒶𝓅𝑒, boost competitiveness, and integrate key sectors, with a detailed action plan set for March.
The announcement comes as Europe grapples with fragmentation and external pressures, making this initiative a urgent call to action. Von der Leyen emphasized reducing administrative burdens as the first pillar, highlighting efforts to cut through bureaucratic hurdles that stifle growth. With 10 omnibus packages in progress, three already delivered, the focus is on accelerating the remaining seven to unlock 15 billion euros in annual savings for businesses. She called for cracking down on “goldplating,“ where member states add extra layers to EU laws, creating 27 different realities that hinder seamless operations.
This push for simplification includes shifting from directives to regulations for uniform application across the bloc, ensuring one clear standard for all. Von der Leyen demanded that lawmakers propose only essential technical acts, while introducing sunset clauses to review and potentially retire outdated laws. A yearly report to the European Council will track progress, adding accountability to this fast-tracked overhaul. The goal is to eliminate inefficiencies that have long plagued the EU’s internal market, fostering an environment where innovation can thrive without borders.
Building a truly integrated market forms the second core element, with Von der Leyen proposing a “28th regime“ dubbed EU Inc. This would allow companies to establish operations digitally within 48 hours, using a single set of rules across all 27 nations. She stressed the need for a deep, liquid capital market through the Savings and Investment Union, targeting completion of its first phase by June. If delays persist, enhanced cooperation among at least nine member states could be invoked, potentially fast-tracking ambitious reforms even if not all agree.
European champions are at the heart of this vision, with new merger guidelines slated for April to enable cross-border deals that compete globally. The Industrial Accelerator Act, including European preferences for strategic sectors, will follow soon, based on rigorous economic analysis. Von der Leyen’s remarks underscored the urgency, warning that without swift action, Europe’s economic edge could erode in a rapidly changing world.
Shifting to energy, the third pillar targets a unified energy market to secure supply and cut costs. Strengthening infrastructure, like expanding grids and cross-border connections, is key, with the Grids Package needing rapid approval. The recent agreement on the Bornholm Island offshore wind project, linking Denmark and Germany, exemplifies this shift toward shared European resources. Discussions on market design were intense, debating the merit order system that drives up prices based on the most expensive energy sources.
Von der Leyen promised to present options at the next council, weighing whether to reform the system given stark cost differences—renewables at 30-34 euros per megawatt hour versus gas at 100. Meanwhile, the digital pillar, the fourth focus, accelerates innovation with the Digital Networks Act and the European Business Wallet for seamless digital identities. This will enable companies to interact uniformly with governments across the EU, slashing administrative complexities.
Timelines in the roadmap will push forward the Tech Sovereignty Package, including Chips Act 2.0, cloud advancements, and AI development. Upgrading AI factories to ecosystems by June highlights Europe’s response to global tech rivalry. Finally, trade emerges as a vital complement, with leaders backing swift implementation of deals with Indonesia, Mercosur, India, and Switzerland, while eyeing future pacts with the Gulf states or Australia.
This comprehensive plan marks a pivotal moment for the EU, demanding unity and speed to deliver on Von der Leyen’s vision. As the bloc races against time, the March European Council will be the critical juncture, potentially defining Europe’s economic future in an era of uncertainty. Stakeholders are already buzzing, with implications rippling across industries and nations, underscoring the high stakes of this transformative agenda.