European Union and Romania plan new strategies to boost economic competitiveness

European institutions are discussing new measures to bolster economic competitiveness against the United States and China. A key proposal from the European Commission involves the creation of a European Competitiveness Fund. This instrument aims to support strategic sectors, including digital technologies, industry, health, biotechnology, energy transition, security, and defense, by simplifying access to financing and attracting private capital.

In Romania, the government's 2026–2028 governing program includes the adoption of a National Competitiveness Strategy. This strategy focuses on two pillars: innovation and growth financing. It aims to map productive capacities, supplier chains, and critical dependencies. The plan involves coordinating industrial policy through an Interministerial Committee for Industrial Policy, with technical support from the Ministry of Economy. Additionally, the strategy seeks to prepare a portfolio of projects for the European Competitiveness Fund and the 2028–2034 Multiannual Financial Framework.