European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced an €18 billion package to boost battery production in Europe during her annual address to the European Parliament.
“Starting a business in Europe must become easier. Therefore, we are developing a roadmap for the single market by 2028, applying ‘Made in Europe’ standards to contracts, and continuing to invest in our Clean Industrial Deal, which includes an €18 billion battery booster,” she added.
Von der Leyen also stated that the European Commission will propose a new long-term trade instrument to replace the expiring steel safeguard measures. “Global overcapacity is squeezing profit margins, reducing incentives to pay for clean premiums. This makes it harder for the European steel industry to invest in decarbonization.”
European Commission
The European Commission is the European Union’s politically independent executive body, responsible for proposing legislation and implementing decisions. It was established in 1958 as part of the then-new European Economic Community. The Commission operates as a cabinet government, with members appointed from each EU country to uphold the collective interest of the Union.
European Parliament
The European Parliament is the directly elected legislative body of the European Union (EU), representing its citizens. Established in 1952 as the Common Assembly of the European Coal and Steel Community, it has evolved from a consultative assembly into a powerful co-legislator with the Council of the EU. Its members have been elected by universal suffrage since 1979, and it plays a central role in shaping EU law and budget.
Made in Europe
“Made in Europe” is not a specific place or cultural site, but rather a phrase used as a marketing term or a label of origin. It broadly signifies that a product was manufactured within the countries of the European Union or Europe, often to denote a certain standard of quality, craftsmanship, or regulatory compliance. The term gained prominence with the economic integration of the European Union, which harmonized trade and standards across member states.
Clean Industrial Deal
The “Clean Industrial Deal” is not a specific place or cultural site, but a policy framework and vision for economic transformation. It refers to a strategy, often associated with the European Union’s Green Deal, aimed at decarbonizing industry by promoting clean technologies, circular economy practices, and sustainable investment. Its history is rooted in early 21st-century climate policy, evolving as a central plan to align industrial growth with ambitious climate neutrality goals.
steel safeguard measures
“Steel safeguard measures” are not a physical place or cultural site, but rather a trade policy action. These are temporary trade restrictions, such as tariffs or quotas, that a government imposes to protect a domestic steel industry from a sudden surge in imports. Historically, countries like the United States have implemented them to shield domestic producers from global market fluctuations and potential injury.
European steel industry
The European steel industry emerged in the 19th century, with the Industrial Revolution, and was long dominated by major producers in Britain and Germany. It played a crucial role in building infrastructure and shaping the continent’s economic and political landscape. Following a major crisis in the late 20th century, the industry underwent significant restructuring and consolidation, with a modern focus on high-value, specialized steel and sustainability.
