The uncertainty generated by the upheavals in global trade further highlights the importance of strengthening the idea of a European Single Market. In an increasingly complex context, this could be a key strategy for the competitiveness of European household appliance manufacturers. The reactivation of intra-EU trade could in fact be a factor of resilience in addressing and counterbalancing the current situation.
An anchor of stability and resilience
Recently Ursula von der Leyen has emphasized that “in times of uncertainty, the Single Market is our anchor of stability and resilience”. Following this statement, APPLiA-Home Appliances Europe declared last may that a robust Single Market is not only beneficial but absolutely essential.
“Tariffs – APPLiA–Home Appliances Europe explained – directly threaten the market access and price competitiveness of EU-produced goods in a key export market, potentially eroding their standing as reliable global suppliers. In response, a unified and harmonised Single Market, devoid of national barriers, provides essential internal strength and economies of scale, acting as a vital buffer against such external trade shocks. This internal cohesion enhances the resilience of EU manufacturers, enabling them to better absorb or mitigate the adverse effects of tariffs”.
The importance of extending the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism
In addition to what has already been said, APPLiA-Home Appliances Europe focuses attention also on CBAM. “Extending the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism to downstream products – the Association said – is crucial to address the risk of carbon leakage and prevent distortions in the Single Market. This will ensure that imported appliances face a comparable carbon cost to those produced within the EU, where manufacturers are increasingly investing in decarbonisation efforts.
Finally, robust enforcement across all sales channels within the Single Market guarantees compliance with EU regulations, protecting consumer trust and preventing the influx of substandard goods that could undermine the overall reputation of the market and its producers.
Therefore, in the face of external pressures exemplified by U.S. tariffs, a strong and effectively governed Single Market is the fundamental cornerstone for securing the long-term reputation and global standing of the EU home appliance sector, and indeed, the resilience of all European industries in an increasingly uncertain world”.
Negotiations, countermeasures, and new markets
At present, although the European Union finds Trump’s 30% tariffs unacceptable, the prevailing strategy is to continue negotiating. At the same time, however, countermeasures are also ready to protect jobs, businesses, and citizens. Furthermore, the EU is also looking at other markets. A trade agreement with Indonesia has just been signed, following those conducted with Mercosur, Chile, and Mexico. Meanwhile, negotiations with India continue.
