There is an urgent need for clarity, predictability, and confidence in Europe and its industrial policy. As very clearly stated by the Belgian PM Alexander De Croo:

“We need our industry for their innovation capacity. To come up with tomorrow’s climate solutions. That is why Europe should not only be a continent of industrial innovation, but should remain a continent of industrial production ”.

To meet climate neutrality by 2050 and the recently communicated 2040 target, Europe’s electricity production will need to multiply, and industry investments will need to be a factor six higher than the previous decade. This enormous challenge comes just as both large companies and SMEs face the most severe economic downturn in a decade, demand is falling, production costs increase and investments move to other regions.

An Open Strategic Autonomy for a competitive and resilient EU is crucial for the transition of Europe in an ever changing geopolitical landscape. It can however only be achieved if also basic and energy intensive industries remain and invest in Europe. Without a targeted industrial policy, Europe risks becoming dependent even on basic goods and chemicals. Europe cannot afford this to happen.

AnimalhealthEurope has signed the Antwerp Declaration to express our industry’s full support for a European Industrial Deal to complement the Green Deal and keep high quality jobs for European workers in Europe.

[Text taken from Antwerp Declaration website]