The CSdL supports the proposal from the European Trade Union Confederation (ETUC) to strengthen the “Made in Europe” principle through industrial policies capable of sustaining production, investment and employment across the continent. According to the San Marino trade union, this is a course that San Marino itself should follow closely, especially in light of the upcoming Association Agreement with the European Union.
“CSdL constantly monitors the activity of the European Trade Union Confederation (ETUC), to which it is affiliated, and wishes to share with the public its positive assessment of the ETUC’s position on the need to strengthen European industrial policy,” the statement reads. “This is all the more important with the Association Agreement now on the horizon, and given that the European market is almost the sole destination for San Marino businesses, the Government and social partners must pay the closest attention to the economic and social policies implemented by EU bodies.”
According to CSdL, the Republic too can carve out its own space in the European market by leveraging quality, innovation, professionalism and sustainability. “To do this, we need investment and public policy, not liberalisation,” the union stresses.
The union’s position stems from a recent report in which the ETUC weighed in on the debate over the European economy’s loss of competitiveness compared to its main international rivals. The debate also concerns the tools to be used to support industry and employment, in a context where countries such as the United States, China, India, Brazil and Indonesia have adopted more assertive policies to support domestic production than those seen in Europe.
“The ETUC is calling for the ‘Made in Europe’ principle to be strengthened, favouring European production, investment and jobs,” CSdL reports. “The goal is to recalibrate incentives, increasing them where necessary and appropriate, for productive activities in EU countries, and to boost the internal market, countering deindustrialisation and dependence on foreign supply chains for goods and services.”
The document also cites employment figures: between 2019 and 2023, according to the ETUC, the European manufacturing sector lost more than 850,000 jobs, with further reductions potentially on the way as a result of plans announced by some major companies.
For the European trade union body, providing greater support to domestic production does not necessarily mean closing off the market. “The goal, rather, is to protect production activities and workers’ rights, creating a system in which foreign companies can also operate and access incentives and/or sell their products in Europe, provided they meet clear standards throughout the supply chain.”
CSdL therefore shares the vision of a European market open to international trade, but grounded in reciprocity and the protection of labour and production. It is a perspective into which the future relationship between San Marino and Brussels also fits.
“Although it is not part of the EU institutions, through the Association Agreement San Marino will be able—and indeed will need—to become part of this project, making the best possible use of the consultation channels provided for,” CSdL concludes.
