1st EU Omnibus: A positive step towards making it easier to do business in Europe

26 February 2025 - The launch of the first Simplification Omnibus marks a significant milestone in making Europe a better place for doing business.

BusinessEurope Director General Markus J. Beyrer said: "Doing better with fewer and clearer norms is what European companies of all size are asking for. By reducing unnecessary reporting and regulatory burdens, the first Omnibus will allow companies to contribute more effectively to the EU’s sustainability objectives while also preserving the EU economy's competitiveness.

In particular, proposals to address the imbalances in the material scope and liability under the CS3D mark major steps forward. Moreover, it is welcome that there will be a significant reduction in the amount of data to be collected, certified and published annually under the CSRD as they represent tangible simplification efforts, without calling into question the objectives.

However, there are some key areas in which the first Omnibus has fallen short. In particular, more efforts must be made to ensure a harmonised approach to Due Diligence to avoid fragmentation down the line. It is the responsibility of all co-legislators to address these issues.

We will now examine these proposals in greater detail and continue to provide constructive input."