29 January 2026 08:20 UTC · European Commission · EU Commission Press Release · Source · Email X Link

European Commission says Europe must build economic independence

Key points

Build a more independent European economy
Adapt competition policy to help firms scale and compete

TL;DR

Europe faces a more hostile global order with weaponised dependencies, export controls, and disrupted supply chains.
The Commission will prioritise a clean transition, developing technologies in Europe, easing burdens on businesses, protecting companies from unfair competition, and striking trade deals (Mercosur, Malaysia, India, Australia).
Competition policy will be made fit for a new age to keep markets open and fair while helping European companies scale, innovate, and compete globally.

Original text

European Commission - Speech Video message by President von der Leyen opening the Clean, Just and Competitive Summit Brussels, 29 January 2026 Ladies and Gentlemen, Welcome to the Clean, Just and Competitive Summit. You are gathered here at a defining moment for our continent. Let's be clear - Europe is in a fight for its future. We live in a world increasingly shaped by power rather than principle. A world of export controls and disrupted supply chains. A world of intense economic and technological rivalry, where every dependency is weaponised. Faced with a more hostile global order, Europe must act decisively, stay true to its values, and become more independent. Building an independent Europe is the driving mission of this Commission. It requires us to use every tool at our disposal,to strengthen Europe's economic foundations. Because only a strong European economy can guarantee our independence. It is why we are determined not only to lead the clean transition, but to ensure the technologies that power it are developed here in Europe. It is why we are focused on making life simpler for European businesses, removing the unnecessary burdens that hold them back. And it is why we are doing more to protect our companies from unfair competition, while striking new trade deals around the world - from Mercosur to Malaysia, from India to Australia. It is only by pulling every lever available that we can turn Europe's ambition into independence. This brings me to competition policy. Competition policy is one of Europe's greatest success stories. It protects consumers and businesses. It drives innovation. And it ensures trust and fairness in our Single Market, so, our companies can grow thanks to their own merits. But the world around is changing fast. Our companies increasingly compete on a global, not national, or even European, level. In times of endless technological transformation, they need vast investment to stay in the race. Meanwhile our competitors often benefit from massive state support. This is why we need to make our competition policy fit for a new age. One that keeps markets open and fair, and that also helps deliver on our strategic goals. One that enables European companies to scale up, to innovate faster, and to compete successfully in truly global markets. The values that drive our competition policy do not change. We will continue to make sure European consumers get the best quality at the best price. And we must also make competition policy work for Europe. So that efficient European companies can grow into global leaders. So that innovative European challengers can emerge and thrive. And so that Europe can compete, and win, in a tougher global economy. Ladies and gentlemen, That is why you are here. From government and industry. From academia and civil society. We need your expertise. Your ideas. And your ambition. To show that Europe can lead in the clean industries of the future. That European firms can thrive in an unforgiving global environment. And ultimately, that we can build a stronger, more independent Europe. I wish you a productive summit. Thank you. SPEECH/26/256 Press contacts: Paula PINHO (+32 2 29 20815) Arianna PODESTA (+32 2 298 70 24) Olof GILL (+32 2 29 65966) General public inquiries: Europe Direct by phone 00 800 67 89 10 11 or by email

European Commission says Europe must build economic independence

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