Strategic Dialogue launched for Europe's automotive industry

Process in Brief

The Commission is launching a Strategic Dialogue with industry, social partners and other stakeholders on 30 January, chaired by President von der Leyen and led within the Commission by Commissioner Tzitzikostas, who has been tasked with developing an action plan for the sector. The format will include regular meetings, thematic working groups and broader consultations involving manufacturers, suppliers, social partners, civil society, the Council and the European Parliament.

What Is at Stake

The dialogue addresses the future of a sector that employs over 13 million people and contributes approximately 7% to the EU's GDP, and that is undergoing transformation from digitalisation, decarbonisation, increased competition and a changing geopolitical landscape. Key discussion points named by the Commission include innovation, the clean transition and decarbonisation, competitiveness and resilience, trade relations and the international 'level playing field', and regulatory streamlining and process optimisation.

Timeline

The Strategic Dialogue will be launched on 30 January with regular meetings and working groups expected to bring forward detailed proposals, and the Commission says the Council and European Parliament will be closely involved throughout the process.