About the dialogues
Antwerp Dialogues bring together multiple stakeholders, including representatives from EU institutions, trade unions, industry, Member State governments and NGOs, to dive into specific aspects of the Antwerp Declaration for a European Industrial Deal. The dialogues examine questions around specific topic of the Antwerp Declaration. They aim to result in key points of consensus to support future decision making.
The conclusions reached in the Dialogues are only endorsed by the organisations explicitly named in relation to the specific Dialogue conclusions. Hosting a Dialogue does not imply endorsement of its outcomes by the stakeholders, unless the host co-signs the latter.
Past Dialogues
Antwerp Dialogue on Market Pull Measures
Antwerp Dialogue on Financing the Double Twin Transition
Antwerp Dialogue on Trade
Antwerp Dialogue on Electrification and Competitiveness
Antwerp Dialogue on Quality Industrial Jobs in Europe
Antwerp Dialogue on Biotech
Antwerp Dialogue on Climate & Energy
Upcoming Dialogues
Antwerp Dialogue on Enforcement at EU borders
The Political Guidelines for the next European Commission 2024-2029 announced that challenges with e-commerce platforms will be tackled to ensure consumers and businesses benefit from a level playing field based on effective customs, tax and safety controls and sustainability standards. Recently, several Member States emphasised the need for better and harmonised enforcement of e-commerce. There is evidence that a vast amount of goods containing banned or restricted substances are imported from outside the EU. From the illegal trade of refrigerants, alcohol, pesticides, consumer goods such as clothing or cosmetics, the list is endless. These illegal activities can happen at the borders or online, bypassing any customs or enforcement controls.
Organised by Crop Life Europe, Cosmetics Europe and Cefic, this Antwerp Dialogue will examine key questions around enforcement focusing on imports of non-compliant or counterfeit goods and online sales in Europe:
- What challenges do enforcement authorities face with online sales and controlling imports?
- Since enforcement is the responsibility of Member States, how can the EU assist?
- The Digital Services Act provides a basis to protect consumers from harmful content online. Is it enough to address non-compliant products sold online?
- What more is needed to hold online sellers accountable?
- What are the obstacles and difficult discussions that need to be addressed to achieve the EU's goal of stronger enforcement?
About the outcomes
Any conclusion published in relation to this Dialogue is only endorsed by the signatories explicitly named. Hosting a Dialogue does not imply endorsement of its outcomes by the participants or any other Antwerp Declaration signatory, unless specifically stated.
Want to host a dialogue?
Take the lead in hosting an Antwerp Dialogue and help shape the future of industry in Europe!
We invite you to first contact us to share your ideas and discuss the next steps.