Commission supports 135 new projects to assist Member States with reforms
The European Commission has approved 135 projects under the Technical Support Instrument (TSI) to aid Member States in executing 390 reforms in 2025. These projects aim to bolster the EUs resilience and competitiveness, focusing on enhancing public administration and the business environment, particularly for SMEs, while preparing energy systems for green and digital transitions.
The TSI will back 109 reforms to enhance the business climate, promote innovation, and build a net-zero economy. Notably, 38 reforms will help reduce administrative burdens for SMEs in 22 Member States. In digital transformation, over 130 reforms emphasize AI and innovative technologies, with projects like FutureProof Education guiding AI integration in schools across Germany, Sweden, and Ireland.
Collaboration among Member States is a key focus, with 40 multi-country projects addressing shared challenges. For example, 14 Member States are modernizing EU tax and customs procedures to simplify processes for SMEs.
A total of 119 reforms will strengthen public administrations, promoting digital transformation, bridging skills gaps, and supporting the green transition. The TSI remains vital for advancing EU strategic goals and enhancing cross-country reform cooperation.
More information is available in a press release and questions and answers online.
(For more information: Maciej Berestecki — Tel.: + 32 487 63 24 98; Rüya Perincek — Tel.: + 32 460 76 25 10)
Commission proposes maintaining liquidity rules to support EU financial markets
The European Commission suggests maintaining existing liquidity requirements for certain financial transactions to ensure fair competition between EU and international banks. This proposal aims to support the liquidity of EU markets and enhance competitiveness.
Under the Capital Requirements Regulation (CRR), certain short-term transactions currently benefit from lower liquidity requirements. The transitional treatment expires on 28 June 2025. The proposal focuses on short-term transactions where assets are exchanged for cash, crucial for banks to provide market liquidity.
The changes to the Net Stable Funding Ratio (NSFR) will support EU market liquidity, reduce issuance costs for bonds, and ensure EU banks compete equally globally. This aligns with the Savings and Investments Union Communication.
The proposal will be reviewed by the European Parliament and Council. With the expiry of the current treatment approaching, the Commission urges swift processing.
For more details, questions and answers are available online.
(For more information: Olof Gill - Tel.: +32 2 296 59 66; Marta Perez-Cejuela Romero - Tel.: +32 2 296 37 70)
Commission launches public consultation on future European bioeconomy strategy
The Commission has opened a public consultation to gather input on the future European bioeconomy strategy. This strategy will explore new opportunities for European bioeconomy businesses and support EU environmental, climate, and competitiveness goals.
The consultation will inform the upcoming bioeconomy strategy, expected by the end of 2025. It will focus on enhancing circularity and sustainability while contributing to the decarbonization of the European economy.
The strategy aligns with key EU initiatives, such as the Competitiveness Compass and the Clean Industrial Deal.
Stakeholders can participate in targeted bioeconomy sessions at upcoming events, such as the Circular Economy Stakeholder Dialogue on 10 April and the EU Green Week from 3 to 5 June.
Commissioner Jessika Roswall stated: “We must collectively build a prosperous, sustainable, and circular bioeconomy. This consultation is vital for shaping the strategy, reflecting the needs and aspirations of citizens and stakeholders.”
More information on the consultation is available online.
(For more information: Maciej Berestecki — Tel.: + 32 487 63 24 98; Maëlys Dreux – Tel.: +32 2 295 46 73)
Commission pays €100 Million advance to Spain for post-DANA storm recovery
The Commission has paid a €100 million advance from the EU Solidarity Fund (EUSF) to Spain for recovery after the October 2024 DANA storm in Valencia. This is the maximum advance allowed under the EUSF.
Spains EUSF application for DANA-related damages is under assessment. Once concluded, the Commission will propose the total EUSF grant.
Vice-President Raffaele Fitto stated: “The DANA storm caused severe devastation in Valencia. Our commitment to supporting recovery remains unwavering.”
The EU Solidarity Fund provides post-disaster financial support for infrastructure restoration and cultural heritage protection.
(For more information: Maciej Berestecki – Tel.: +32 229-66483; Isabel Arriaga e Cunha – Tel.: +32 229-52117)
Commission launches Virtual Worlds Toolbox to explore digital spaces
The Commission released the Virtual Worlds Toolbox, an online resource to navigate virtual environments. It explains how virtual worlds function and outlines citizens rights.
Henna Virkkunen stated: “Our toolbox empowers people to explore digital spaces safely.”
These resources are part of the 2023 EU Strategy on Web 4.0 and Virtual Worlds.
More information is available online.
(For more information: Thomas Regnier — Tel. + 32 2 299 10 99; Nika Blazevic — Tel. + 32 2 299 27 17)
Commission clears acquisition of OQ Chemicals by Strategic Value Partners
The European Commission approved the acquisition of OQ Chemicals by Strategic Value Partners LLC. The transaction was examined under a simplified merger review procedure.
More information is available on the Commissions competition website.
(For more information: Lea Zuber – Tel.: +32 2 295 62 98; Sara Simonini - Tel.: +32 2 298 33 67)