German Chancellor Friedrich Merz emphasized the urgency of regulatory reform in the European Union during the European Industry Summit in Antwerp on Wednesday, citing China's rapid economic growth as a benchmark for efficiency. Speaking to EU leaders and industry stakeholders, Merz warned that the bloc risks falling behind global competitors without immediate action to streamline bureaucratic processes.
"China built the world's largest solar farms within months, while EU projects face years of delays," Merz stated, highlighting a stark contrast in administrative efficiency. He noted that China's average annual growth of 8% over the past two decades far outpaces the EU's 1% average, urging Europe to adopt a "regulatory clean slate" to revive competitiveness.
The chancellor proposed automatic approval for projects not addressed within weeks or months by regulators, a measure he argued would align EU processes with private-sector expectations. His remarks come as EU leaders convene for two days of talks focused on strengthening the single market and addressing widening growth gaps with the U.S. and China.
Analysts suggest Merz's comments reflect growing pressure on European industries to innovate amid shifting global supply chains and technological rivalries. The summit concludes Thursday with discussions on cross-border trade facilitation and investment strategies.
