During the European Parliament’s plenary session in Strasbourg, a resolution titled “Protecting EU Businesses, Jobs, and Products from Unfair Competition from Third Countries” was adopted by a large majority. Its author, PiS MEP and Chair of the Committee on Petitions (PETI) Bogdan Rzońca, outlined the document’s main points in a speech preceding the vote. As he emphasized, the resolution—an initiative of the ECR Group—is a response to the growing threats to the European economy resulting from unfair trade practices by third countries, including dumping, production subsidies, and circumvention of EU standards—particularly in e-commerce.
“The starting point for this resolution was a series of petitions from Polish entrepreneurs—manufacturers of children’s goods and footwear—who warn that unfair competition from third countries is destroying European companies, jobs, and consumer safety,” — emphasized Bogdan Rzońca.
The MEP drew attention to the influx into the EU market of products that do not meet basic quality and safety standards. “Products that do not meet our standards are entering the EU market, often intended for the youngest children. We cannot accept a situation in which European businesses that adhere to rigorous standards lose out to imports that circumvent regulations,” he noted.
The adopted resolution calls on the European Commission to take concrete action, including strengthening trade defense instruments, accelerating customs reform, and abolishing the duty-free exemption for low-value shipments under 150 euros. The document also calls for more effective enforcement of product safety and environmental standards against non-EU sellers, as well as increasing the liability of online platforms through, among other measures, the introduction of the concept of a “presumed importer.”
The resolution also highlights the need to support European industry—particularly small and medium-sized enterprises—by reducing administrative burdens and introducing targeted support measures.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has shown that Europe must protect its own production, strategic independence, and jobs,” Rzońca noted.
The document was adopted by an overwhelming majority, reflecting broad political support for measures aimed at leveling the playing field in the EU single market.
“I hope that this resolution will not remain merely a political declaration, but will mark the beginning of concrete actions to promote fair competition and more effective protection of European businesses, workers, and consumers,” the MEP concluded.
