Communication on the Single Market in a changing world: a unique asset in need of renewed political commitment

Summary:

On 22 November 2018 the European Commission presented a fresh assessment of the situation in the Single Market and called on Member States to renew their political commitment to the Single Market.

Further information:

Over the last 25 years, the Single Market has made Europe one of the most attractive places to live and to do business. Its four indivisible freedoms – the free movement of people, goods, services and capital – have helped improve citizens' prosperity and strengthen the EU's competitiveness. To exploit its full potential in the digital era and ensure sustainable growth, the Single Market needs to function properly and constantly evolve in a rapidly changing world.

In March 2018, the European Council asked the Commission to assess the state of play of the Single Market regarding the implementation, application and enforcement of existing legislation that is key for the functioning of the Single Market, as well as the remaining barriers and opportunities for a fully functioning Single Market.

This Communication is a first response to the request of the European Council and presents the current state of play, recalling the benefits for citizens, consumers and businesses. It highlights the urgent need to agree before the end of the current legislative cycle on the proposals made, and emphasises the need for a more effective implementation, application and enforcement of the Single Market rules.

It also assesses the main barriers that will need to be tackled so that the Single Market continues to function effectively, enabling the Union to seize the opportunities of a future-proof Single Market that will ultimately help ensure growth and prosperity for its citizens and businesses and shape the global agenda.

See also:

• Communication on harmonised standards: enhancing transparency and legal certainty for a fully functioning Single Market
• Communication on the Investment Plan for Europe: stock-taking and next steps

Official

European Commission: Press Release, 22/11/2018: The Single Market: Europe's best asset in a changing world http://europa.eu/rapid/press-release_IP-18-6490_en.htm

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