Stéphane Séjourné's Strategy for Boosting the EU's Single Market

In a recent interview, French EU Commissioner Stéphane Séjourné, who serves as one of the six Executive Vice-Presidents of the European Commission, outlined his comprehensive strategy to enhance the European Union's single market. With a key portfolio focused on Prosperity and Industrial Strategy, Séjourné emphasizes the fundamental role the single market plays in driving growth and prosperity across the EU. His background as France's former foreign minister, a Member of the European Parliament (MEP), and leader of the centrist Renew group further reinforces his expertise and commitment to fostering economic advancement within the union.

On May 21, 2023, Séjourné presented his blueprint for revitalizing the EU's single market, highlighting a series of reforms and initiatives aimed at addressing current challenges. According to Séjourné, the single market is vital for creating a competitive environment that nurtures innovation, boosts investment, and creates jobs. His vision is to ensure that businesses of all sizes can thrive and compete effectively in both European and global markets.

One of the key components of Séjourné's strategy is enhancing digital infrastructure and fostering a unified digital market. He underscored the importance of integrating digital services across member states to eliminate barriers that hinder online commerce. By streamlining regulations and ensuring that all businesses can easily access digital tools, Séjourné believes that the EU can harness the full potential of the digital economy, driving growth and innovation.

Additionally, Séjourné's proposal includes a significant push towards sustainability, aligning the single market with the EU's broader climate goals. He advocates for policies that encourage green technologies and sustainable practices, which he asserts are essential for future economic resilience. By incentivizing businesses to adopt environmentally-friendly practices, the EU can position itself as a leader in the global green economy, ultimately benefiting both the environment and the economy.

Another critical aspect of his strategy involves enhancing the resilience of supply chains across the EU. Séjourné emphasized the importance of diversifying suppliers and reducing reliance on single-source imports. By promoting local production and fostering regional partnerships, he aims to shield the European economy from external shocks and disruptions, which have become increasingly apparent in recent years.

Moreover, Séjourné's strategy emphasizes the need for a fair and inclusive single market that considers the unique challenges faced by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). He calls for measures that simplify access to financing for SMEs, enabling them to invest in innovation and growth. By ensuring that the benefits of the single market extend to all businesses, Séjourné hopes to cultivate a more balanced and equitable economic landscape within the EU.

Stéphane Séjourné’s approach to strengthening the EU's single market is ambitious and multifaceted. It seeks to address pressing economic challenges while simultaneously promoting sustainability, digital integration, and resilience. As the EU navigates a complex global landscape, his proposals may play a crucial role in shaping the future of the European economy. With his extensive political experience and a clear vision for the single market, Séjourné is well-positioned to lead efforts aimed at fostering prosperity and industrial strategy within the European Union.