The European Commission is revising its guidelines on the assessment of business combinations for the first time in around two decades. The aim is to ensure that far-reaching economic changes brought about by digitalisation, decarbonisation, global value chains and geopolitical challenges are given greater consideration in European merger control. From the AK’s perspective, this update is, in principle, to be welcomed.

Humanoid robotics is becoming a strategic technology for the coming decades. China is pursuing a systemic approach that combines industrial scale-up, government coordination, open innovation platforms and international standard-setting. Humanoid robots are seen not simply as industrial tools, but as future infrastructure for manufacturing, care, logistics and public services. The strategic importance of humanoid robotics lies in the development of complete industrial ecosystems with humanoid robotics becoming a hub for future technologies.

On Wednesday, September 16, EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen delivered her annual State of the Union address. Economic strength and independence were highlighted as goals in the speech, with a continued focus on reducing the administrative burden. Motivated by a changing, increasingly hostile world, von der Leyen also emphasized strategic partnerships, expansion efforts, and defence capabilities. She identified AI and climate change as the key challenges for the future.

On 9 September, Teresa Ribera, Vice-President of the EU Commission, and Dan Jørgensen, EU Commissioner for Energy and Housing, presented the Affordable Housing Act proposal. Shortly afterwards, Jørgensen joined an initial discussion in the EU Parliament’s relevant special committee. Through this package of measures, the EU Commission seeks to make housing more affordable and available while giving local authorities legal certainty if they choose to restrict short-term rentals.

Postal services are an important and indispensable part of the infrastructure. Even though demand and needs have changed significantly - particularly as a result of digitalization - the physical transport of mail and a reliable supply of postal services remain of great importance. AK is therefore committed to a high-quality, comprehensive, and affordable supply of postal services and supports measures to empower consumers and promote fair competition with good working conditions.

In mid-July, alongside the expected revision of the EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS), the European Commission presented an action plan to electrify industry, space heating and transport. Both initiatives aim to advance the green transition, reduce Europe’s dependence on imported fossil fuels and strengthen the competitiveness of the European economy.

The EU has adopted a forced labour product ban which will apply from 14 December 2027. AK has welcomed its adoption and calls for its effective application.

Humanoid robotics is becoming a strategic technology for the coming decades. China is pursuing a systemic approach that combines industrial scale-up, government coordination, open innovation platforms and international standard-setting. Humanoid robots are seen not simply as industrial tools, but as future infrastructure for manufacturing, care, logistics and public services. The strategic importance of humanoid robotics lies in the development of complete industrial ecosystems with humanoid robotics becoming a hub for future technologies.

The debate on the 2028–2034 Multiannual Financial Framework concerns not only how funds are allocated but also how they are financed. Although major investment is needed to address current challenges, cuts to traditional spending areas and higher national contributions face strong resistance. New EU own resources could help resolve this dilemma. A recent study reviews proposals from the Commission and the European Parliament and considers further options, including taxes on financial transactions, kerosene and ultra-high wealth.

Launched in 2011, the European Semester has been continuously developed and is now a multifaceted tool for coordinating EU Member States’ economic, employment, social and environmental policies. Plans are underway to further strengthen it by linking it to the forthcoming Multiannual Financial Framework. Tying country-specific recommendations to payments from the EU budget should be viewed with great scepticism. Overall, strengthening its social dimension and democratic foundations is long overdue.