Press releases

Brussels, 10 September 2024 – CLECAT, the European association representing the freight forwarding, logistics, and customs industries, welcomes the publication of the highly anticipated Draghi Report on the “Future of European Competitiveness” which provides a comprehensive analysis of the structural challenges and opportunities facing the European economy.  

CLECAT had the privilege of being consulted during the drafting of the report and we are pleased to see many of our sector’s key priorities reflected in the recommendations. The report outlines the urgent need to boost productivity, improve regulatory frameworks, and foster innovation to meet Europe’s political and economic goals.  

CLECAT’s Director General Nicolette van der Jagt said: “The Draghi Report underscores the vital importance of transport and logistics to the EU’s economic connectivity and competitiveness. A well-functioning transport network is essential for the movement of goods, services, and resources, which drive economic growth, job creation, and social cohesion. CLECAT is encouraged by the recognition that transport is central to the EU’s ability to remain competitive on the global stage.” 

Ms van der Jagt added: “One of the report's key findings is the urgent need for a regulatory reset to improve the EU’s competitiveness. The report emphasises that Europe’s regulatory environment is overly complex and fragmented, often resulting in inefficiencies that stifle growth. CLECAT has long advocated for the reduction of unnecessary regulatory burdens, particularly those that hinder cross-border transport and logistics operations.”  

The report’s proposal to stress-test regulations for their economic and practical implications, along with efforts to quantify the cost of new legislation, resonates with CLECAT’s strategic priorities. A streamlined and harmonised regulatory framework is crucial for the success of the Single Market, and we urge the EU to adopt these recommendations in its upcoming policies. 

CLECAT is encouraged by the Draghi Report’s strong focus on decarbonisation, which aligns with our sector’s commitment to contributing to the EU’s net-zero goals. The report warns that without coordinated planning and significant investment, the EU’s ambitious climate targets for transport are unlikely to be met. CLECAT believes that targeted support mechanisms will be critical in helping our industry transition to greener operations.  

CLECAT applauds the Draghi Report for its comprehensive analysis and ambitious recommendations aimed at boosting Europe’s competitiveness. The report’s focus on simplifying regulations, accelerating digitalisation, and promoting decarbonisation reflects many of CLECAT’s strategic priorities.  The key question now is whether these grand ambitions can count on support from the EU’s Member States in a period marked by global uncertainty. As the voice of European freight forwarders and logistics service providers, we remain committed to working with EU policymakers, industry stakeholders, and Member States to ensure the implementation of these vital reforms.