On Thursday, 14 November 2024, the Union of Entrepreneurs and Employers (ZPP) in partnership with SME Connect held a working breakfast titled “From Potential to Progress: Strengthening the CEE Region’s Digital Economy” at the European Parliament in Brussels, Belgium.

The e-commerce sector in the Central and Eastern European (CEE) region has experienced dynamic growth in recent years, mainly due to the increasing digitalisation of economies and integration into the European Union’s Single Digital Market (DSM). This integration enables companies, especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), to access new markets, which has a positive impact on their competitiveness and cross-border trade opportunities.

While we frequently discuss the need for economic security, European and Polish economies are increasingly infiltrated by companies that not only leverage unfair competition through subsidies and price dumping but also sometimes pose threats to the core stability of state institutions and civil liberties. We’ve known for years what needs to be done and how, yet tangible action remains scarce – as they say, “the Chinese hold on firmly,” often with the help of local lobbyists.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen was sworn in for a second term of office on 18 July. Two months later, she proposed the long-awaited composition of the College of Commissioners for 2024-2029. However, before her team assumes their positions, likely on 1 November, the EC chief’s designated colleagues must undergo hearings before the European Parliament. More than one candidate in previous years has fallen at this stage.

Recent times have been a period of increased efforts by the legislator to support the energy transition in Poland, which is to be welcomed. Among other things, the regulator has released a clear and transparent message to facilitate connection procedures, especially for renewable sources.

The Polish presidency should actively promote the implementation of strategic directions in the area of healthcare, ensuring the stability and predictability of regulations and supporting innovation and development in the pharmaceutical sector.