The Antwerp Declaration, and its call for a European Industrial Deal, has seen a remarkable surge in support, having reached 1000 supporters from business leaders of companies, associations and Trade Union organisations representing 25 sectors across Europe, in an historic display of unity.

First presented by 73 industry leaders on 20 February at the European Industry Summit to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo, the rapid increase in signatures underscores the pressing need for concerted action in the face of unparalleled economic challenges.

Marco Mensink, Director General of Cefic, emphasized: “The future of Europe is made with industry. A common and holistic European approach for an Industrial Deal is essential. Today, 1000 organisations are united in their strong call for a European Industrial Deal to implement the Green Deal, ensure that industry remains globally competitive, and keep high quality jobs for European workers in Europe. We urge EU Leaders to include our call in the new EU Strategic Agenda and policies for the next five years and embed the Industrial Deal into the structure, budget, and fabric of the new European Commission”.

The European Council next week and the Competitiveness Council in May, the Letta and Draghi reports, the Clean Transition Dialogues, and the Antwerp Declaration all come together in a historic moment for industry in Europe.

The Antwerp Declaration serves as a wake-up call to decision-makers in Europe, laying out a widely agreed framework of ten key points outlining the need to address high energy prices, establishing common European infrastructure, secure raw material supplies, foster a smarter innovation framework, and stimulate demand for sustainable products. The declaration also advocates for a robust investment framework for technologies and calls for leveraging the single market to ensure businesses remain in Europe.