Exchange with academics and business leaders in Madrid
BusinessEurope President Fredrik Persson was in Madrid to exchange views with business leaders and academics on Europe’s economic future, the Single Market, and global competitiveness.
He met with Enrico Letta, Dean of the IE School of Politics, Economics and Global Affairs, and took part in a lively exchange with students and members of the IE Business Leadership Forum.
Persson warned that the Single Market, once Europe’s greatest strength, is being weakened by fragmentation and excessive regulation, which weigh heavily on companies’ ability to grow and compete. “The cost of this is equivalent to a 110% tariff in services and 45% in goods,” he stressed. He also called for stronger European security and defence capabilities, highlighting that Europe must be able to protect itself while driving innovation, investment, and business.
“Together with our 42 member federations, we are working to get the EU back on a growth trajectory. The Letta Report offers a strong foundation, now it’s time for action. The EU must move fast to boost competitiveness and keep pace with the US and China”, Persson said.
His visit also included an exchange with our Spanish member federation CEOE and its EU Committee, where he emphasised that CEOE’s active involvement ensures Spanish business perspectives shape our priorities and are heard at the highest level in Brussels. The meeting highlighted how cooperation among member federations remains vital to advancing a stronger, more competitive Europe
