Commission to tackle throw-away economy
The EU remains committed towards circular economy that would appease economic and environmental concerns and transform Europe into a more competitive and resource-efficient economy. In that regard, the EU Commission is expected to adopt a new ambitious waste proposal in early 2016, which will review EU recycling and other waste-related targets on a long-term basis. […]
EU to strengthen its international outreach
The EU wants continue to affirm its position as global leader and spread its sphere of influence across the continents. Partnering with foreign nations in the field of trade and investment will remain the EU’s weapon of choice. To that extent, the Commission plans to finalize TTIP negotiations with the US in 2016. Having the […]
Securing clean and cheap energy supply in Europe
The EU’s objective in the energy sector remains securing affordable and climate-friendly energy under the framework of an integrated energy market. To this end, the EU Commission just recently outlined its key action areas for 2016 – branding it the year of delivery. First and foremost, the EU will adopt a new Regulation on security […]
EP inquiry committee into Panama Papers
On 14 April 2016, the European Parliament (EP) voted in favour of setting up an inquiry committee to investigate the so-called Panama Papers. The committee is expected to have the power to investigate all European clientele of tax havens in Latin America. In addition, the newly set up parliamentary committee will exacerbate the debate over […]
Commission to review the ePrivacy Directive
The Commission launched a public consultation on the evaluation and the possible changes to the current ePrivacy Directive. The ePrivacy Directive is a crucial piece of legislation setting-up specific rules concerning the processing of personal data in the electronic communication sector. Since its adoption in 2009, the electronic communications industry has been rapidly growing. Due […]
EU to change environment for start-ups
The Commission has now started to shape the European start-up policy by launching a public consultation on improving the environment for European start-ups and fast growing firms. The ideas and thoughts during the consultation will be used to prepare new legislation. Future measures will cover businesses from the creation of a start-up until the Scale-up […]
EU to restrict peanut oil and hydrolysed wheat proteins in cosmetics
The Commission is considering possible restrictions on the use of peanut oil and hydrolysed wheat proteins (HWP) in cosmetic products. In 2014, the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety published two opinions raising scientific concerns on the use of peanut oil and hydrolysed wheat proteins in cosmetic products. According to the opinions, the exposure of skin […]
EU carves the path to digitize European industry
On 19 April 2016, the Commission presented a set of measures to support and connect national initiatives for the digitization of industry and related services across all sectors. While many parts of the economy have quickly adapted to digital technologies due to expected higher revenues, some traditional sectors (such as agro-food, textiles or steel) are […]
EU’s highest court endorses tobacco law
On 4 May 2016, the Court of the Justice of the European Union (CJEU) upheld stricter rules on tobacco packaging, the ban on menthol cigarettes and special rules on electronic cigarettes. The CJEU has upheld the new EU regulation that requires tobacco firms to cover two-thirds of cigarette packets with health warning. In addition, the […]