### the programme in particular needs to tackle the radical implications for competition and the functioning of the internal market resulting from the ongoing transformation of the economy and business environment , in particular through the exponential growth and use of data , taking account of the increasing recourse to artificial intelligence and other it tools and expertise by companies and their advisors . it is also essential that the programme supports networks and cooperation with member state authorities and courts , considering that undistorted competition and the functioning of the internal market depend critically on action by those entities . in view of the particular role of competition policy in preventing harm to the internal market resulting from anticompetitive conduct beyond the union’s border , the programme should also support cooperation with third country authorities , as appropriate . finally , widening outreach activities is necessary in order to allow more citizens and businesses to reap the full benefits of fair competition in the internal market . given that a number of initiatives in the programme are new and that the competition part of the programme is particularly affected by dynamic developments in the conditions of competition in the internal market , notably relating to artificial intelligence , algorithms , big data , cybersecurity and forensic technology , the pace and magnitude of which are difficult to estimate , it is anticipated that flexibility will be required to face the evolving needs under this part of the programme . ### the programme in particular needs to tackle the radical implications for competition and the functioning of the internal market resulting from the ongoing transformation of the economy and business environment , in particular through the exponential growth and use of data , taking account of the increasing recourse to artificial intelligence and other it tools and expertise by companies and their advisors . it is also essential that the programme supports networks and cooperation with member state authorities and courts , considering that undistorted competition and the functioning of the internal market depend critically on action by those entities . in view of the particular role of competition policy in preventing harm to the internal market resulting from anticompetitive conduct beyond the union’s border , the programme should also support cooperation with third country authorities , as appropriate . finally , widening outreach activities is necessary in order to allow more citizens and businesses to reap the full benefits of fair competition in the internal market . given that a number of initiatives in the programme are new and that the competition part of the programme is particularly affected by dynamic developments in the conditions of competition in the internal market , notably relating to digital developments , artificial intelligence , algorithms , big data , cybersecurity and forensic technology , the pace and magnitude of which are difficult to estimate , it is anticipated that flexibility will be required to face the evolving needs under this part of the programme .


### strengthening the competitiveness of european enterprises while reassuring an effective level playing field and an open and competitive internal market is of outmost importance . smes are the engine of the european economy making up 99% of all businesses in europe , providing two thirds of jobs , and contributing substantially to the creation of new jobs with a regional and local dimension . ### strengthening the competitiveness of european enterprises while reassuring an effective level playing field and an open and competitive internal market is of outmost importance , especially for smes which are the engine of the european economy making up 99% of all businesses in europe , providing two thirds of jobs , and contributing substantially to the creation of new jobs with a regional and local dimension .


### strengthening the competitiveness of european enterprises while reassuring an effective level playing field and an open and competitive internal market is of outmost importance . smes are the engine of the european economy making up 99% of all businesses in europe , providing two thirds of jobs , and contributing substantially to the creation of new jobs with a regional and local dimension . ### strengthening the competitiveness and sustainability of european enterprises while reassuring an effective level playing field and an open and competitive internal market is of outmost importance . smes are the engine of the european economy making up 99% of all businesses in europe , providing two thirds of jobs , and contributing substantially to the creation of new quality jobs in all sectors with a regional and local dimension , and hence social cohesion . smes are instrumental in pursuing the energy transition and contributing to the achievement of the union ' s climate objectives deriving from the paris agreement . the programme should therefore enhance their capacity to develop environmentally - friendly high quality products and services and support their efforts to increase resource - efficiency , in line with the ' energy efficiency first ' principle . in doing so , the programme also contributes to improve union smes competitiveness on the global market .


### smes share common challenges that do not affect larger firms to the same extent to obtain finance , to find skilled work force , to alleviate administrative burden , to take - up creativity and innovation , to access markets and foster internationalisation activities . the programme should address such market failures proportionally , while not unduly distorting competition in the internal market . ### smes share common challenges that do not affect larger firms to the same extent to obtain finance , to find skilled work force , to alleviate administrative burden , to take - up creativity and innovation , to access markets and foster internationalisation activities and to access public procurement . the programme should address such market failures proportionally , while not unduly distorting competition in the internal market .


### smes share common challenges that do not affect larger firms to the same extent to obtain finance , to find skilled work force , to alleviate administrative burden , to take - up creativity and innovation , to access markets and foster internationalisation activities . the programme should address such market failures proportionally , while not unduly distorting competition in the internal market . ### smes share common challenges that do not affect larger firms to the same extent to obtain finance , to find skilled work force , to alleviate administrative burden , to take - up creativity and innovation , to access markets , and foster internationalisation activities . the programme should address such market failures proportionally , while not unduly distorting competition in the internal market . the programme should in particular create appropriate conditions to introduce technological and organisational innovation in the production processes , paying attention to specific forms of smes such as micro enterprises , enterprises engaged in craft activities , the self - employed , the liberal professions and social economy enterprises . attention should also be paid to potential , new , young and female entrepreneurs , as well as to other specific target groups , such as older people , migrants and entrepreneurs belonging to socially disadvantaged or vulnerable groups such as persons with disabilities .


### smes share common challenges that do not affect larger firms to the same extent to obtain finance , to find skilled work force , to alleviate administrative burden , to take - up creativity and innovation , to access markets and foster internationalisation activities . the programme should address such market failures proportionally , while not unduly distorting competition in the internal market . ### smes share common challenges that do not affect larger firms to the same extent to obtain finance , to find skilled work force , to alleviate administrative burden , to take - up creativity and innovation , to access markets and foster internationalisation activities . special attention should be paid to smes in regions with constraints , such as mountain areas and the outermost regions , where smes are the only source of economic activity and employment . the programme should address such market failures proportionally , while not unduly distorting competition in the internal market .


### many of the union ' s competitiveness problems involve smes ' difficulties in obtaining access to finance because they struggle to demonstrate their credit - worthiness and have insufficient collateral . additional financing challenges arise from smes ' need to stay competitive by engaging e . g . in digitization , internationalization and innovation activities and skilling up their workforce . limited access to finance has a negative effect on businesses creation , growth and survival rates , as well as on the readiness of new entrepreneurs to take over viable companies in the context of a business succession . ### many of the union ' s competitiveness problems involve smes ' difficulties in obtaining access to finance because they struggle to demonstrate their credit - worthiness and have insufficient collateral . additional financing challenges arise from smes ' need to stay competitive by engaging e . g . in digitization , internationalization and innovation activities and skilling up their workforce . limited access to finance has a negative effect on businesses creation , growth , the local economy and survival rates , as well as on the readiness of new entrepreneurs to take over viable companies in the context of a business succession .


### many of the union ' s competitiveness problems involve smes ' difficulties in obtaining access to finance because they struggle to demonstrate their credit - worthiness and have insufficient collateral . additional financing challenges arise from smes ' need to stay competitive by engaging e . g . in digitization , internationalization and innovation activities and skilling up their workforce . limited access to finance has a negative effect on businesses creation , growth and survival rates , as well as on the readiness of new entrepreneurs to take over viable companies in the context of a business succession . ### many of the union ' s competitiveness problems involve smes ' difficulties in obtaining access to finance because they struggle to demonstrate their credit - worthiness and have insufficient collateral . additional financing challenges arise from smes ' need to stay competitive by engaging e . g . in digitization , internationalization and innovation activities and skilling up their workforce . limited access to finance has a negative effect on businesses creation , growth and survival rates , as well as on the readiness of new entrepreneurs to take over viable companies in the context of a business succession . particular attention should be paid to microenterprises , enterprises engaged in craft activities and social enterprises . attention should also be paid to potential , new , young and female entrepreneurs , as well as to other specific target groups , such as older people , migrants and entrepreneurs belonging to socially disadvantaged or vulnerable groups , such as persons with disabilities , and to the promotion of business transfers , spin - offs and second chances for entrepreneurs .


### to overcome these market failures and to ensure that smes continue to play their role as the foundation for the union economy´s competitiveness , small and medium sized enterprises need extra support through debt and equity instruments to be established under the sme window of the investeu fund established by regulation [ … ] of the european parliament and of the council52 . the loan guarantee facility put in place under regulation no 1287 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council53 has a proven added value and is expected to bring a positive contribution to at least 500 000 smes ; a successor will be established under the sme window of the investeu fund . __________________ 52 com 439 final 53 regulation no 1287 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 11 december 2013 establishing a programme for the competitiveness of enterprises and small and medium - sized enterprises and repealing decision no 1639 / 2006 / ec . ### to overcome these market failures and to ensure that smes continue to play their role as the foundation for the union economy´s competitiveness , and driver for a sustainable economy , small and medium sized enterprises need extra support through debt and equity instruments to be established under the sme window of the investeu fund established by regulation [ … ] of the european parliament and of the council52 . the loan guarantee facility put in place under regulation no 1287 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council53 has a proven added value and is expected to bring a positive contribution to at least 500 000 smes ; a successor will be established under the sme window of the investeu fund . more attention should be paid to better communication and public campaigns in order to increase awareness to potential beneficiaries of the availability of the programme for sme . to raise the awareness of union’s actions supporting smes , actions that are wholly or partially funded by this programme , including intermediaries , should incorporate the european emblem associated to a sentence acknowledging the support received by the cosme programme . __________________ 52 com 439 final 53 regulation no 1287 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 11 december 2013 establishing a programme for the competitiveness of enterprises and small and medium - sized enterprises and repealing decision no 1639 / 2006 / ec .


### to overcome these market failures and to ensure that smes continue to play their role as the foundation for the union economy´s competitiveness , small and medium sized enterprises need extra support through debt and equity instruments to be established under the sme window of the investeu fund established by regulation [ … ] of the european parliament and of the council52 . the loan guarantee facility put in place under regulation no 1287 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council53 has a proven added value and is expected to bring a positive contribution to at least 500 000 smes ; a successor will be established under the sme window of the investeu fund . _________________ 52 com 439 final 53 regulation no 1287 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 11 december 2013 establishing a programme for the competitiveness of enterprises and small and medium - sized enterprises and repealing decision no 1639 / 2006 / ec . ### to overcome these market failures and to ensure that smes continue to play their role as the foundation for the union economy´s competitiveness , small and medium sized enterprises need extra support also through debt and equity instruments to be established under the sme window of the investeu fund established by regulation [ … ] of the european parliament and of the council52 . the loan guarantee facility put in place under regulation no 1287 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council53 has a proven added value and is expected to bring a positive contribution to at least 500 000 smes ; a successor will be established under the sme window of the investeu fund . _________________ 52 com 439 final 53 regulation no 1287 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 11 december 2013 establishing a programme for the competitiveness of enterprises and small and medium - sized enterprises and repealing decision no 1639 / 2006 / ec .


### the policy objectives of this programme will be also addressed through financial instruments and budgetary guarantee under the sme window of the investeu fund . financial support should be used to address market failures or sub - optimal investment situations , in a proportionate manner and actions should not duplicate or crowd out private financing or distort competition in the internal market . actions should have a clear european added value . ### the policy objectives of this programme will be also addressed through financial instruments and budgetary guarantee under the sme window of the investeu fund . the sme window of the investeu fund should have a central overarching point providing information about the programme in each member state , in order to increase the accessibility and awareness of the funds for smes . financial support should be used to address market failures or sub - optimal investment situations , in a proportionate manner and actions should not duplicate or crowd out private financing or distort competition in the internal market , and should clearly offer additionality and enhancing synergies with other european programmes . actions should have a clear european added value .


### the programme should provide effective support for smes throughout their life - cycle . it should build on the unique knowledge and expertise developed with regard to smes and industrial sectors and on a long experience in working with european , national and regional stakeholders . this support should build on the successful experience of the enterprise europe network as a one - stop - shop to improve smes competitiveness and develop their business in the single market and beyond . the network plans to continue delivering services on behalf of other union programmes , notably for the horizon2020 programme , using the financial resources of these programmes . also the mentoring scheme for new entrepreneurs should remain the tool to enable new or aspiring entrepreneurs to gain business experience by matching with an experienced entrepreneur from another country and thus allow strengthening entrepreneurial talents . the programme should further strive to grow and extend its geographical coverage and thus offer wider range of matching possibilities to entrepreneurs in complementarity with other union initiatives where relevant . ### the programme should provide effective support for smes throughout their life - cycle , providing assistance ranging from project preparation through to commercialisation and access to the market , and encouraging the creation of business enterprise networks . it should build on the unique knowledge and expertise developed with regard to smes and economic and entrepreneurial sectors and on a long experience in working with european , national and regional stakeholders . this support should build on the experience of the enterprise europe network as a one - stop - shop to improve smes competitiveness and develop their business in the single market and beyond . the network plans to continue delivering services on behalf of other union programmes , notably for the horizon2020 programme , using the financial resources of these programmes . it should also support enhanced participation of smes representatives’ organisation in the development of single market policy initiative , such as public procurement , standardisation processes and intellectual property regimes . the network should also increase the number of actions , providing more targeted advice to sme , in drafting projects and supporting networking and technological and organisational transition . the network should also improve cooperation and liaison with other advisory hubs established in the digital programme and investeu as regards access to finance . the cosme actions in the network should also aim to provide high quality services across europe , paying particular attention to areas of activities and geographical parts of the union where the networks and intermediary stakeholders do not meet expected results . also the successful mentoring scheme for new entrepreneurs - erasmus for young entrepreneurs - should remain the tool to enable new or aspiring entrepreneurs to gain business and managerial experience by matching with an experienced entrepreneur from another country and thus allow strengthening entrepreneurial talents . the programme should grow and extend its geographical coverage and thus offer wider range of matching possibilities to entrepreneurs in complementarity with other union initiatives where relevant . in order to increase the value added by the promotion of entrepreneurship initiatives , special attention should be paid to micro - enterprises and to those that have benefited the least from the existing programme , and where the culture of entrepreneurship remains at a very basic level , and faces more barriers . every effort should be made to achieve reasonably geographically balanced distribution of the funds .


### clusters are a strategic tool for supporting the competitiveness and scaling - up of smes as they offer favourable business environments . joint cluster initiatives should achieve critical mass to accelerate the growth of smes . by connecting specialised eco - systems , clusters create new business opportunities for smes and integrate them better in european and global strategic value chains . support should be provided for the development of transnational partnership strategies and the implementation of joint activities , supported by the european cluster collaboration platform . sustainable partnering should be encouraged with continuation funding if performance and participation milestones are reached . direct support to smes should be channelled through cluster organisations for the following : uptake of advanced technologies , new business models , low - carbon and resource - efficient solutions , creativity and design , skills upgrading , talent attraction , entrepreneurship acceleration , and internationalisation . other specialised sme support actors should be associated to facilitate industrial transformation and implementations of smart specialisation strategies . the programme should thus contribute to growth and build linkages with the union ' s innovation hubs and investments made under cohesion policy and horizon europe . synergies with the erasmus programme can also be explored . ### clusters are a strategic tool for supporting the competitiveness and scaling - up of smes as they offer favourable business environments , increase sustainable development of industry and services and strengthen the economic development of the regions through the creation of quality jobs . joint cluster initiatives should achieve critical mass to accelerate the growth of smes . by connecting specialised eco - systems , clusters create new business opportunities for smes and integrate them better in european and global strategic value chains . support should be provided for the development of transnational partnership strategies and the implementation of joint activities , supported by the european cluster collaboration platform . sustainable partnering should be encouraged with continuation funding if performance and participation milestones are reached . direct support to smes should be channelled through cluster organisations for the following : uptake of advanced technologies , new business models , solutions , creativity and design , skills upgrading , talent attraction , entrepreneurship acceleration , and internationalisation . other specialised sme support actors should be associated to facilitate industrial transformation and implementations of smart specialisation strategies . the programme should thus contribute to sustainable economic development and build linkages with the union’s innovation hubs and investments made under cohesion policy and horizon europe . synergies with the erasmus programme can also be explored .


### creativity and innovation are crucial for the competitiveness of the union ' s industrial value chains . they represent catalysts for industrial modernisation and contribute to smart , inclusive sustainable growth . however , uptake by smes is still lagging behind . the programme should therefore support targeted actions , networks and partnerships for creativity - driven innovation throughout the industrial value chain . ### creativity and innovation , technological and organisational transformation , enhanced sustainability in terms of production processes , in particular resource and energy efficiency , are crucial for the competitiveness of the union ' s industrial value chains . they represent catalysts for the modernisation of the business and industry sectors and contribute to smart , inclusive sustainable growth . however , uptake by smes is still lagging behind . the programme should therefore support targeted actions , networks and partnerships for creativity - driven innovation throughout the industrial value chain .


### european standards play an important role in the internal market . they are of vital interest for the competitiveness of undertakings , and especially smes . they are also a crucial tool to support union legislation and policies in a number of key areas such as energy , climate change , information and communication technology , sustainable use of resources , innovation , product safety , consumer protection , worker ' s safety and working conditions and ageing population , thus positively contributing to the society as a whole . ### european standards play an important role in the internal market . they are of vital interest for the competitiveness of undertakings , and especially smes . they are also a crucial tool to support union legislation and policies in a number of key areas such as energy , climate change , information and communication technology , sustainable use of resources , innovation , product safety , consumer protection , worker ' s safety and working conditions and ageing population , thus positively contributing to the society as a whole . however , experience has shown that improvement is needed regarding the speed and timeliness in the elaboration of standards and more efforts should be done in order to include weaker stakeholders representing consumers , environment and workers ' interests .


### european standards play an important role in the internal market . they are of vital interest for the competitiveness of undertakings , and especially smes . they are also a crucial tool to support union legislation and policies in a number of key areas such as energy , climate change , information and communication technology , sustainable use of resources , innovation , product safety , consumer protection , worker ' s safety and working conditions and ageing population , thus positively contributing to the society as a whole . ### european standards play an important role in the internal market . they are of vital interest for the competitiveness of undertakings , and especially smes . they are also a crucial tool to support union legislation and policy goals in a number of key areas such as accelerating the energy transition , tackling climate change , environmental protection , improved air and water quality , information and communication technology , sustainable use and recycling of resources , technological and social innovation , product safety , consumer protection , worker ' s safety and working conditions and ageing population , thus positively contributing to the society as a whole .


### the union contributes to ensuring a high level of consumer protection , empowering consumers and putting them at the heart of the internal market by supporting and complementing member states’ policies in seeking to ensure that citizens when acting as consumers can fully reap the benefits of the internal market and that , in so doing , their safety and legal and economic interests are properly protected by means of concrete actions . the union has also to ensure that consumer and product safety laws are properly and equally enforced on the ground and that businesses enjoy a level playing field with fair competition in the internal market . moreover , it is necessary to empower , encourage and assist consumers in making sustainable choices , thus contributing to a sustainable , energy and resource efficient and circular economy . ### the union contributes to ensuring a high level of consumer protection , empowering consumers and putting them at the heart of the internal market by supporting and complementing member states’ policies in seeking to ensure that citizens when acting as consumers can fully reap the benefits of the internal market and that , in so doing , their safety and legal and economic interests are properly protected by means of concrete actions . the union has also to ensure that consumer and product safety laws are properly and equally enforced on the ground and that businesses enjoy a level playing field with fair competition in the internal market . moreover , it is necessary to empower , encourage and assist consumers in making sustainable choices , thus contributing to a sustainable , energy and resource efficient and circular economy which follows the goals set under the un 2030 agenda for sustainable development .


### the programme should aim to raise the awareness of consumers , businesses , civil society and authorities on union consumer and safety laws and to empower consumers and their representative organisations at national level and at the union level notably by supporting the bureau européen des unions de consommateurs which is the long established and recognised ngo representing consumer interests in relation to all relevant union policies , and the european association for the co - ordination of consumer representation in standardisation which represents consumers interest in relation to standardisation issues . in doing so , particular attention should be given to new market needs regarding the promotion of sustainable consumption and the prevention of vulnerabilities as well as challenges created by the digitisation of the economy or the development of new consumption patterns and business models . the programme should support the development of relevant information on markets , policy challenges , emerging issues and behaviours , and the publication of the union consumer scoreboards . ### the programme should aim to raise the awareness of consumers , businesses , civil society and authorities on union consumer and safety laws and to empower consumers and their representative organisations at national level and at the union level notably by supporting the bureau européen des unions de consommateurs which is the long established and recognised ngo representing consumer interests in relation to all relevant union policies , and the european association for the co - ordination of consumer representation in standardisation which represents consumers interest in relation to standardisation issues . in doing so , particular attention should be given to new market needs regarding the promotion of sustainable consumption and the prevention of vulnerabilities as well as challenges created by the digitisation of the economy , connected products , internet of things , artificial intelligence and use of algorithms or the development of new consumption patterns and business models , especially social entrepreneurship and the collaborative economy . the programme should support the development of relevant information on markets , policy challenges , emerging issues and behaviours , and the publication of the union consumer scoreboards .


### the programme should support national competent authorities , including those responsible for monitoring product safety , who cooperate notably via the union’s rapid alert system for dangerous products . it should also support the enforcement of directive 2001 / 95 / ec of the european parliament and of the council58 and regulation no 765 / 2008 regarding consumer protection and product safety , and the consumer protection cooperation network and international cooperation between the relevant authorities in third countries and in the union . the programme should also aim to ensure access for all consumers and traders to quality out of court dispute resolution and online dispute resolution and information on redress possibilities . _________________ 58 directive 2001 / 95 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 3 december 2001 on general product safety . ### the programme should support national competent authorities , including those responsible for monitoring product safety , who cooperate notably via the union’s rapid alert system for dangerous products . it should also support the enforcement of directive 2001 / 95 / ec of the european parliament and of the council58 and regulation no 765 / 2008 regarding consumer protection and product safety , and the consumer protection cooperation network and international cooperation between the relevant authorities in third countries and in the union . the programme should also aim to ensure access for all consumers and traders to quality out of court dispute resolution and online dispute resolution and information on redress possibilities , at the lowest cost . _________________ 58 directive 2001 / 95 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 3 december 2001 on general product safety .


### the european consumer centres network is assisting consumers to obtain the benefit of their union consumer rights when they purchase goods and services cross border in the internal market and eea , either on - line or when travelling . the 30 centres strong network , jointly funded by the union consumer programmes since more than 10 years has proven its added value to strengthen consumers and traders trust in the internal market . it deals with more than 100 000 consumers’ requests per year and reaches millions of citizens via its press and online information activities . it is one of the most valued citizens’ assistance network of the union and most of its centres host contact points for internal market law , such as the directive 2006 / 123 / ec of the european parliament and of the council59 and its evaluation stresses the importance to continue its operation . the network also intends to develop reciprocity arrangements with similar bodies in third countries . __________________ 59 directive 2006 / 123 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 12 december 2006 on services in the internal market . ### the programme should also support the european consumer centres network which assists consumers to obtain the benefit of their union consumer rights when they purchase goods and services cross border in the internal market and eea , either on - line or when travelling . the 30 centres strong network , jointly funded by the union consumer programmes since more than 10 years has proven its added value to strengthen consumers and traders trust in the internal market . it deals with more than 100 000 consumers’ requests per year and reaches millions of citizens via its press and online information activities . it is one of the most valued citizens’ assistance network of the union and most of its centres host contact points for internal market law , such as the directive 2006 / 123 / ec of the european parliament and of the council59 and its evaluation stresses the importance to continue its operation . european consumer centres network can be also an important source of information about challenges and problems that consumers encounter at local level , which are relevant for union policy - making and for the protection of the interests of consumers . therefore , the programme should allow for the building and enhancing of synergies between consumer representation at local and union level in order to strengthen consumer advocacy . the network also intends to develop reciprocity arrangements with similar bodies in third countries . __________________ 59 directive 2006 / 123 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 12 december 2006 on services in the internal market .


### the fitness check of union consumer and marketing law carried out by the commission in may 2017 exposed the need to better enforce rules and facilitate redress when consumers have been harmed by breaches to consumer laws . as a result the commission adopted a ' new deal for consumers ' in april 2018 to ensure , inter alia , the equal treatment of consumers across the internal market in relation to dual quality standards , stronger enforcement capacities of member states , enhanced product safety , increased international cooperation and new possibilities for redress notably through representative actions by qualified entities . the programme should aim to support consumer policy with awareness raising and knowledge building , capacity building and exchange of best practices of the consumer organisations and consumer protection authorities , networking and development of market intelligence , strengthening the evidence base on the functioning of the internal market for consumers , it systems and communication tools , inter alia . ### the fitness check of union consumer and marketing law carried out by the commission in may 2017 exposed the need to better enforce rules and facilitate redress when consumers have been harmed by breaches to consumer laws . as a result the commission adopted a ' new deal for consumers ' in april 2018 to ensure , inter alia , the equal treatment of consumers across the internal market in relation to cross - border cases , such as selling of non - compliant products in the motor vehicles sector , dual quality standards of products or the problems of passengers stranded as a result of the cancellation of a large number of flights , stronger enforcement capacities of member states , enhanced product safety , increased international cooperation and new possibilities for redress notably through representative actions by qualified entities . the programme should aim to support consumer policy with awareness raising and knowledge building , capacity building and exchange of best practices of the consumer organisations and consumer protection authorities , networking and development of market intelligence , strengthening the evidence base on the functioning of the internal market for consumers , it systems and communication tools , inter alia .


### the programme should therefore continue to support the specific activities covered by the 2017 - 2020 capacity - building programme enhancing the involvement of consumers and other financial services end - users in union policy - making , as set out in regulation 2017 / 826 of the european parliament and of the council60 which continued the pilot programme and preparatory action of the years 2012 - 2017 . this is necessary in order to provide policy makers with views from stakeholders other than financial sector professionals and ensure a better representation of the interests of consumers and other financial services end - users . this should result in better financial services policies , notably thanks to a better public understanding of the issues at stake in financial regulation and enhanced financial literacy . __________________ 60 regulation 2017 / 826 of the european parliament and of the council of 17 may 2017 on establishing a union programme to support specific activities enhancing the involvement of consumers and other financial services end - users in union policy - making in the area of financial services for the period 2017 - 2020 . ### the programme should therefore continue to support the specific activities covered by the 2017 - 2020 capacity - building programme enhancing the involvement of consumers and other financial services end - users in union policy - making , as set out in regulation 2017 / 826 of the european parliament and of the council60 which continued the pilot programme and preparatory action of the years 2012 - 2017 . this is necessary in order to provide policy makers with views from stakeholders other than financial sector professionals and ensure a better representation of the interests of consumers and other financial services end - users . the programme shall continuously develop its methodology and best practices on how to increase the engagement of consumers and financial - services end - users in order to identify issues relevant for union policy - making and ensuring the interests of consumers in the area of financial services . this should improve financial services policies , notably thanks to a better public understanding of the issues at stake in financial regulation and enhanced financial literacy . the public resources of this programme should focus on what is essential for the final users and avoid any form of direct or indirect financial support to commercial activities proposed by private financial operators . __________________ 60 regulation 2017 / 826 of the european parliament and of the council of 17 may 2017 on establishing a union programme to support specific activities enhancing the involvement of consumers and other financial services end - users in union policy - making in the area of financial services for the period 2017 - 2020 .


### a high level of health protection through the food supply chain is necessary to allow the internal market to operate efficiently . a safe and sustainable food supply chain is a prerequisite for society and for the internal market . cross border health crises and food scares disrupt the functioning of the internal market by limiting the movements of persons and goods and disrupting production . ### a high level of health protection through the food supply chain is necessary to allow the internal market to operate efficiently and smoothly . a safe and sustainable food supply chain is a prerequisite for society and for the internal market . cross border health crises and food scares disrupt the functioning of the internal market by limiting the movements of persons and goods and disrupting production . it is of utmost importance to prevent cross border health crises and food scares ; therefore , the programme should support concrete actions , such as establishing emergency measures in the event of crisis situations and unforeseeable events affecting animal and plant health .


### a high level of health protection through the food supply chain is necessary to allow the internal market to operate efficiently . a safe and sustainable food supply chain is a prerequisite for society and for the internal market . cross border health crises and food scares disrupt the functioning of the internal market by limiting the movements of persons and goods and disrupting production . ### a high level of health protection through the food supply chain is necessary to protect consumers and the environment as well as to allow the internal market to operate efficiently . a safe and sustainable food supply chain is a prerequisite for society and for the internal market . as demonstrated by recent incidents such as the fipronil egg contamination in 2017 and the horse meat scandal in 2013 , cross border health crises , i . e . avian influenza or african swine fever , and food scares disrupt the functioning of the internal market by limiting the movements of persons and goods and disrupting production . therefore , ensuring high sanitary standards , animal welfare and health protection through the food chain , and the prevention of new and unknown pests and diseases should be key priorities .


### a high level of health protection through the food supply chain is necessary to allow the internal market to operate efficiently . a safe and sustainable food supply chain is a prerequisite for society and for the internal market . cross border health crises and food scares disrupt the functioning of the internal market by limiting the movements of persons and goods and disrupting production . ### a high level of health protection through the agricultural and food supply chain is necessary to allow the internal market to operate efficiently . a safe and sustainable agricultural and food supply chain is a prerequisite for society and for the internal market . cross border health crises and food scares disrupt the functioning of the internal market by limiting the movements of persons and goods and disrupting production . in order to prevent cross border health crises and food scares , the programme should support concrete actions , such as establishing emergency measures in the event of crises and unforeseeable events affecting animal and plant health , creating a mechanism for direct access to the union crisis reserve in order to deal with these emergency situations more promptly , effectively and efficiently . therefore prevention of new and unknown pests and diseases should be a key priority .


### official controls carried out by the member states are an essential tool for verifying and monitoring that relevant union requirements are being implemented , complied with and enforced . the effectiveness and efficiency of official control systems is vital for maintaining a high level of safety for humans , animals and plants along the food chain whilst ensuring a high level of protection of the environment and of animal welfare . union financial support should be made available for such control measures . in particular , a financial contribution should be available to union reference laboratories in order to help them bear the costs arising from the implementation of work programmes approved by the commission . moreover , since the effectiveness of official controls also depends on the availability to the control authorities of well trained staff with an appropriate knowledge of union law , the union should be able to contribute to their training and relevant exchange programmes organised by competent authorities . ### in view of an increasingly globalised food chain , official controls carried out by the member states are now more than ever an essential tool for verifying and monitoring that relevant union requirements are being implemented , complied with and enforced , especially as regards imported food products . the effectiveness and efficiency of official control systems is vital for maintaining a high level of safety for humans , animals and plants along the food chain , as well as consumer confidence , whilst ensuring a high level of protection of the environment and of animal welfare . union financial support should be made available for such control measures . in particular , a financial contribution should be available to union reference laboratories in order to help them bear the costs arising from the implementation of work programmes approved by the commission . financial contribution should also be available to increase the level of controls on imports , in order to tackle phenomena such as illegal imports of bush meat which can put human health at risk and causes biodiversity loss . since the effectiveness of official controls also depends on the availability to the control authorities of well trained staff with an appropriate knowledge of union law , the union should be able to contribute to their training and relevant exchange programmes organised by competent authorities .


### the union and member states are committed to the implementation of the united nations 2030 agenda for sustainable development . by contributing to the achievement of the 2030 agenda , the union and member states will foster a stronger , more sustainable , inclusive , secure and prosperous europe . the programme should contribute to the implementation of the 2030 agenda , including by balancing the economic , social and environmental dimensions of sustainable development . ### the union and member states are committed to deliver on in being a frontrunner in implementing the united nations 2030 agenda for sustainable development . by contributing to the achievement of the 2030 agenda , the union and member states will foster a stronger , more sustainable , inclusive , secure and prosperous europe . the programme should contribute to the implementation of the 2030 agenda , including by balancing the economic , social and environmental dimensions of sustainable development , providing to that end clear and visible commitment in its mff regulation , and mainstreaming the sustainable development goals , as requested by the european parliament resolutions of the 14 march and 30 may2018 on the 2021 - 2027 mff .


### the actions implemented under the predecessor programmes and budget lines have proven to be adequate and should be retained . the new actions introduced under the programme aim to reinforce in particular the well - functioning internal market . in order to provide more simplicity and flexibility in the execution of the programme and thereby to better deliver on its objectives , the actions should be defined only in terms of overall , generic categories . lists of indicative activities concerning specific objectives in the area of competitiveness , or specific activities stemming from regulatory requirements , like in the area of standardisation , food chain regulation and european statistics should also be included in the programme . ### the actions implemented under the predecessor programmes and budget lines have proven to be adequate and should be retained . the new actions introduced under the programme aim to reinforce in particular the well - functioning internal market . in order to provide more simplicity and flexibility in the execution of the programme and thereby to better deliver on its objectives , the actions should be defined only in terms of overall , generic categories . lists of indicative activities concerning specific objectives in the area of competitiveness , or specific activities stemming from regulatory requirements , like in the area of market surveillance and product safety , consumers , standardisation , food chain regulation and european statistics should also be included in the programme .


### considering the increasing interconnectivity of the world economy , the programme should continue to provide the possibility of involving external experts , such as officials of third countries , representatives of international organisations or economic operators in certain activities . ### considering the increasing interconnectivity of the world economy , including the digital economy , the programme should continue to provide the possibility of involving external experts , such as officials of third countries , representatives of international organisations or economic operators in certain activities .


### the programme should promote synergies and complementarities with respect to the smes and entrepreneurship support under the european regional development fund established by regulation [ … ] of the european parliament and of the council69 . moreover , the sme window of investeu fund established by regulation [ … ] of the european parliament and of the council70 will guarantee debt and equity support to enhance access and availability of finance for smes . the programme should also seek synergies with the space programme established by regulation [ … ] of the european parliament and of the council71 in respect of encouragement of smes to benefit from breakthrough innovation and other solutions developed under those programmes . __________________ 69 com 372 final 70 com 439 final 71 com 447 final ### the programme should promote synergies , complementarities and additionality with respect to the smes and entrepreneurship support under the european regional development fund established by regulation [ … ] of the european parliament and of the council69 . moreover , the sme window of investeu fund established by regulation [ … ] of the european parliament and of the council70 will guarantee debt and equity support to enhance access and availability of finance for smes and micro enterprises . the programme should also seek synergies with the space programme established by regulation [ … ] of the european parliament and of the council71 in respect of encouragement of smes to benefit from breakthrough innovation and other solutions developed under those programmes . __________________ 69 com 372 final 70 com 439 final 71 com 447 final


### the programme should promote synergies and complementarities with respect to the smes and entrepreneurship support under the european regional development fund established by regulation [ … ] of the european parliament and of the council69 . moreover , the sme window of investeu fund established by regulation [ … ] of the european parliament and of the council70will guarantee debt and equity support to enhance access and availability of finance for smes . the programme should also seek synergies with the space programme established by regulation [ … ] of the european parliament and of the council71in respect of encouragement of smes to benefit from breakthrough innovation and other solutions developed under those programmes . _________________ 69 com 372 final 70 com 439 final 71 com 447 final ### the programme should promote synergies and complementarities with respect to the smes and entrepreneurship support under the european regional development fund established by regulation [ … ] of the european parliament and of the council69 . moreover , the sme window of investeu fund established by regulation [ … ] of the european parliament and of the council70 will guarantee debt and equity support to enhance access and availability of finance for smes and micro enterprises . the programme should also seek synergies with the space programme established by regulation [ … ] of the european parliament and of the council71 in respect of encouragement of smes to benefit from breakthrough innovation and other solutions developed under those programmes . _________________ 69 com 372 final . 70 com 439 final 71 com 447 final


### horizontal financial rules adopted by the european parliament and the council on the basis of article 322 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union apply to this regulation . these rules are laid down in the financial regulation and determine in particular the procedure for establishing and implementing the budget through grants , procurement , prizes , indirect implementation , and provide for checks on the responsibility of financial actors . rules adopted on the basis of article 322 tfeu also concern the protection of the union ' s budget in case of generalised deficiencies as regards the rule of law in the member states , as the respect for the rule of law is an essential precondition for sound financial management and effective union funding . ### horizontal financial rules adopted by the european parliament and the council on the basis of article 322 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union apply to this regulation . these rules are laid down in the financial regulation and determine in particular the procedure for establishing and implementing the budget through grants , procurement , prizes , indirect implementation , and provide for checks on the responsibility of financial actors .


### to improve the functioning of the internal market , and especially to protect and empower citizens , consumers and businesses , in particular micro , small and medium - sized enterprises , by enforcement of union law , facilitation of market access , standard setting , and by promoting human , animal and plant health and animal welfare ; as well as to enhance cooperation between the competent authorities of member states and between the competent authorities of member states and the commission and the decentralised union agencies ; ### improve the competitiveness and functioning of the internal market enhancing it with local economies , tackle market inefficiencies and facilitating the enforcement of the union ' s legal framework , , protect and empower citizens , consumers and business , including its workforce , in particular micro , small and medium sized enterprises contributing to climate goals and sustainable industrial growth as well as to create the conditions for stable and quality employment , facilitation of market access , standard setting , and by promoting human , animal and plant health and animal welfare ; as well as to enhance cooperation and sharing of best practices between the competent authorities of member states and between the competent authorities of member states and the commission and the decentralised union agencies ;


### to provide high - quality , comparable and reliable statistics on europe which underpin the design , monitoring and evaluation of all the union policies and help policy makers , businesses , academia , citizens and media to make informed decisions and actively participate in the democratic process . ### to develop , produce and disseminate high - quality , comparable and reliable european statistics which underpin the design , monitoring and evaluation of all the union policies , including trade and migration , and help citizens , policy makers and regulators , supervisory authorities , businesses , academia , civil society and media to make informed decisions and actively participate in the democratic process .


### improving the competitiveness of enterprises with special emphasis on smes and achieving additionality through the provision of measures that provide various forms of support to smes , access to markets including the internationalisation of smes , favourable business environment for smes , the competitiveness of sectors , the modernisation of industry and the promotion of entrepreneurship ; ### improving the competitiveness of enterprises with special emphasis on smes and achieving additionality across the union through measures , such as : i . the provision of measures that provide various forms of support to smes , access to markets including the tourism sector ; ii . fostering access to markets by internationalisation of smes ; iii . fostering a favourable business environment for smes ; iv . supporting competitiveness of sectors ; v . fostering modernisation of industry ; vi . supporting development of industrial value chains ; vii . the promotion of entrepreneurship ;


### enable the financing of european standardisation and stakeholder participation in setting up european standards ; ### enable the financing of european standardisation and participation of all stakeholders in setting up european standards ;


### support the development of high - quality international financial reporting and auditing standards , facilitate their integration into the union law and promote the innovation and development of best practices in corporate reporting ; ### support the development of high - quality international financial reporting and auditing standards , facilitate their integration into the union law and / or promote the innovation and development of best practices in corporate reporting for both small and big companies ;


### promoting the interests of consumers and ensuring a high level of consumer protection and product safety by : ### promoting the interests of consumers and ensuring a uniform and high level of consumer protection by :


### contributing to a high level of health for humans , animals and plants along the food chain and in related areas , including by preventing and eradicating diseases and pests , and to support the improvement of the welfare of animals as well as a sustainable food production and consumption ; ### contributing to a high level of health for humans , animals and plants along the agricultural and food supply chain and in related areas , including by preventing and eradicating diseases and pests , also by means of emergency measures in the event of large - scale crisis situations and unforeseeable events affecting animal or plant health , and to support the improvement of the welfare of animals as well as a sustainable agri - food production and consumption at affordable prices , reducing food waste , raising consumer awareness and capitalising on the benefits of the circular economy ; thereby focusing on stimulating research , innovation and the exchange of best practices between stakeholders in all the above mentioned fields ;


### the financial envelope for the implementation of the programme for the period 2021 to 2027 shall be eur 4 088 580 000 in current prices . ### the financial envelope for the implementation of the programme for the period 2021 to 2027 shall be eur 5 514 000 000 in 2018 prices .


### eur 1 000 000 000 to the objective referred to in article 3 ; ### eur 2 772 000 000 in 2018 prices to the objective referred to in article3 ;


### eur 188 000 000 to the objective referred to in article 3 ; ### eur 198 000 000 to the objective referred to in article 3 ;


### creation of the right conditions to empower all actors of the internal market , including businesses , citizens and consumers , civil society and public authorities through transparent information and awareness raising campaigns , best practice exchange , promotion of good practices , exchange and dissemination of expertise and knowledge and organization of trainings ; ### creation of the right conditions to empower all actors of the internal market , including citizens and consumers , businesses , &#160 ; civil society and public authorities through transparent information and awareness raising campaigns , best practice exchange , promotion of good practices , exchange and dissemination of expertise and knowledge and organization of trainings ;


### provision of mechanisms for citizens , consumers , end - users , civil society and businesses representatives from the union to contribute to political discussions , policies and decision making process , notably by supporting the functioning of representative organisations at national and the union level ; ### provision of mechanisms for citizens , consumers , consumer associations , end - users , civil society and businesses representatives from the union to contribute to political discussions , policies and decision making process , notably by supporting the functioning of representative organisations at national and the union level ;


### facilitating smes ' access to markets , supporting them in addressing global and societal challenges and business internationalisation , and strengthening union industrial leadership in global value chains , including the enterprise europe network ; ### facilitating micro - enterprises , smes and enterprises networks ' access to markets , including markets outside of the union , supporting them in addressing global , environmental , economic and societal challenges and business internationalisation , facilitating support for them during their life - cycle and strengthening union entrepreneurial and industrial leadership in global value chains ;


### facilitating smes ' access to markets , supporting them in addressing global and societal challenges and business internationalisation , and strengthening union industrial leadership in global value chains , including the enterprise europe network ; ### facilitating smes ' access to eu and global markets , supporting them in addressing global and societal challenges and business internationalisation , and strengthening union industrial leadership in global value chains , including the enterprise europe network ;


### addressing market barriers , administrative burden and creating a favourable business environment to empower smes to benefit from the internal market ; ### addressing market barriers , reducing administrative burden , including reducing obstacles for setting - up enterprises and the starting of businesses and creating a favourable business environment to allow micro - enterprises and smes to benefit from the internal market , including access to finance ; and by providing appropriate guidance , mentoring and coaching schemes delivery of knowledge - based business services ;


### addressing market barriers , administrative burden and creating a favourable business environment to empower smes to benefit from the internal market ; ### addressing market barriers , including geographical barriers , administrative burden and creating a favourable business environment to empower smes from all eu regions to be able to equally benefit from the internal market ;


### facilitating the growth of businesses , including skills development , and industrial transformation across manufacturing and service sectors ; ### facilitating the growth of businesses in line with the 2030 agenda for sustainable development , including skills development , digital and industrial transformation across manufacturing and service sectors ;


### fostering an entrepreneurial business environment and entrepreneurial culture , including the mentoring scheme for new entrepreneurs and supporting start - ups , business sustainability and scale - ups . ### fostering an entrepreneurial business environment and entrepreneurial culture , especially among women and young people , with the focus on young people in rural areas , including the mentoring scheme for new entrepreneurs and supporting start - ups , business sustainability and scale - ups and the creation of new services ; focusing on the development of business initiatives such as ‘ junior enterprises’ in a university environment and recognition of this concept at european level .


### may receive support from the european regional development fund , the cohesion fund , the european social fund plus or the european agricultural fund for rural development , in accordance with paragraph 5 of article [ 67 ] of regulation xx [ common provisions regulation ] and article [ 8 ] or regulation xx [ financing , management and monitoring of the common agricultural policy ] , provided that such actions are consistent with the objectives of the programme concerned . the rules of the fund providing support shall apply . ### may receive support from the european regional development fund , the cohesion fund , the european social fund plus or the european agricultural fund for rural development , in accordance with paragraph 5 of article [ 67 ] of regulation xx [ common provisions regulation ] and article [ 8 ] or regulation xx [ financing , management and monitoring of the common agricultural policy ] , or regulation xx [ establishing the digital europe programme ] in particular the objective on advanced digital skills , provided that such actions are consistent with the objectives of the programme concerned . the rules of the fund providing support shall apply .


### the programme shall be implemented by work programme referred to in article 110 of the financial regulation . work programmes shall set out , where applicable , the overall amount reserved for blending operations . ### the commission is empowered to adopt delegated acts pursuant to article 20 , supplementing this regulation , in order to adopt work programme referred to in article 110 of the financial regulation . work programmes shall set out , where applicable , the overall amount reserved for blending operations .


### the programme shall be implemented by work programme referred to in article 110 of the financial regulation . work programmes shall set out , where applicable , the overall amount reserved for blending operations . ### the programme shall be implemented by work programme in accordance with article 110 of the financial regulation . the work programmes shall be annual or multiannual and shall in particular set out the objectives to be pursued , the expected results , the method of implementation and the total amount of the financing plan . they shall also set out in detail a description of the actions to be financed , an indication of the amount allocated to each action and an indicative implementation timetable . work programmes shall set out , where applicable , the overall amount reserved for blending operations .


### the interim evaluation of the programme shall be performed once there is sufficient information available about the implementation of the programme , but no later than four years after the start of the programme implementation . ### by [ four years after the start of the implementation of the programme ] at the latest , the commission shall establish an interim evaluation report of the programme on the achievement of the objectives of the actions supported under it , on the results and impacts , on the efficiency of the use of resources and on its union added value .


### at the end of the implementation of the programme , but no later than four years after the end of the period specified in article 1 , a final evaluation of the programme shall be carried out by the commission . ### by [ three years after the end of the implementation of the programme ] at the latest , the commission shall establish a final evaluation report on the longer term impact of the programme , on the sustainability of the actions and on the synergies between the different work programmes .


### the delegation of power referred to in articles 9 and 17 may be revoked at any time by the european parliament or by the council . a decision to revoke shall put an end to the delegation of power specified in that decision . it shall take effect the day following the publication of the decision in the official journal of the european union or at a later date specified therein . it shall not affect the validity of any delegated acts already in force . ### the delegation of power referred to in articles 9 , 10 , 16 and 17 may be revoked at any time by the european parliament or by the council . a decision to revoke shall put an end to the delegation of power specified in that decision . it shall take effect the day following the publication of the decision in the official journal of the european union or at a later date specified therein . it shall not affect the validity of any delegated acts already in force .


### the commission shall be assisted by the standing committee on the food chain and animal health established by article 58 of regulation no 178 / 2002 of the european parliament and of the council99 . that committee shall be a committee within the meaning of regulation no 182 / 2011 . _________________ 99 regulation no 178 / 2002 of the european parliament and of the council of 28 january 2002 laying down the general principles and requirements of food law , establishing the european food safety authority and laying down procedures in matters of food safety . ### regarding the specific objective referred to in article 3 , &#160 ; the commission shall be assisted by the standing committee on the food chain and animal health established by article 58 of regulation no 178 / 2002 of the european parliament and of the council . 99 . that committee shall be a committee within the meaning of regulation no 182 / 2011 . _________________ 99 regulation no 178 / 2002 of the european parliament and of the council of 28 january 2002 laying down the general principles and requirements of food law , establishing the european food safety authority and laying down procedures in matters of food safety .


### the recipients of union funding shall acknowledge the origin and ensure the visibility of the union funding , by providing coherent , effective and proportionate targeted information to multiple audiences , including the media and the public . ### the recipients of union funding shall operate with transparency and acknowledge the origin and ensure the visibility of the union funding , by providing coherent , effective and proportionate targeted information to multiple audiences , including the media and the public at local level . .


### the commission shall implement information and communication actions relating to the programme , and its actions and results . financial resources allocated to the programme shall also contribute to the corporate communication of the political priorities of the union , as far as they are related to the objectives referred to in article 3 . ### the commission shall take adequate measures to implement information and communication actions in a user - friendly manner , in order to raise awareness among consumers , citizens , businesses , especially smes and public administrations about the resources provided through the financial instruments of this regulation , as well as about its actions and results . financial resources allocated to the programme shall also contribute to the corporate communication of the political priorities of the union , as far as they are related to the objectives referred to in article 3 .


### –better measuring of trade in services , foreign direct investment , global value chains and the impact of globalisation on the union economies . ### –better measuring of trade in goods and services , foreign direct investment , global value chains and the impact of globalisation on the union economies .


### –providing high quality , timely and reliable statistics to support the european pillar of social rights and the union skills policy , including statistics on the labour market , employment , education and training , income , living conditions , poverty , inequality , social protection , undeclared work and satellite accounts on skills ; ### –providing high quality , timely and reliable statistics to support the european pillar of social rights and the union skills policy , including , but not exclusive to , statistics on the labour market , employment , education and training , income , living conditions , poverty , inequality , social protection , undeclared work and satellite accounts on skills ;


### objective objectives laid down in article 3 objectives laid down in article 3 objectives laid down in article 3 objectives laid down in article 3 objectives laid down in article 3 objectives laid down in article 3 objective objectives laid down in article 3 objectives laid down in article 3 objectives laid down in article 3 objectives laid down in article 3 objectives laid down in article 3 objectives laid down in article 3 objectives laid down in article 3 ### indicator 1 - number of new complaints and cases of non - compliance in the area of free movement of goods and services , as well as union legislation on public procurement . 2 - services trade restrictiveness index . 3 - number of visits to the your europe portal . 4 – number of joint market surveillance campaigns . 1 - number of smes receiving support 2 - number of companies supported having concluded business partnerships . 1 - share of implementation of european standards as national standards by member states in total amount of active european standards . 2 - percentage of international financial reporting and auditing standards endorsed by the union . 1 - consumer condition index . 2 - number of position papers and responses to public consultations in the field of financial services from beneficiaries . 1 - number of successfully implemented national veterinary and phytosanitary programmes . 1 - impact of statistics published on the internet : number of web mentions and positive / negative opinions . indicator 1 - union legislation on public procurement . 2 - services trade restrictiveness index . 3 - number of visits to the your europe portal . 1 - number of new complaints and cases of non - compliance in the area of free movement of goods and services and online sales . 2 - number of joint market surveillance and products safety campaigns . 1 - number of smes receiving support 2 - number of companies supported having concluded business partnerships . 1 - share of implementation of european standards as national standards by member states in total amount of active european standards . 2 - percentage of international financial reporting and auditing standards endorsed by the union . 1 - consumer condition index . 2 - number of position papers and responses to public consultations in the field of financial services from beneficiaries . 1 - number of successfully implemented national veterinary and phytosanitary programmes . 1 - impact of statistics published on the internet : number of web mentions and positive / negative opinions .


### proposal for a regulation of the european parliament and of the council on the alignment of reporting obligations in the field of environment policy and thereby amending directives 86 / 278 / eec , 2002 / 49 / ec , 2004 / 35 / ec , 2007 / 2 / ec , 2009 / 147 / ec and 2010 / 63 / eu , regulations no 166 / 2006 and no 995 / 2010 , and council regulations no 338 / 97 and no 2173 / 2005 ### proposal for a regulation of the european parliament and of the council on the alignment of reporting obligations in the field of legislation related to the environment and thereby amending directives 86 / 278 / eec , 2002 / 49 / ec , 2004 / 35 / ec , 2007 / 2 / ec , 2009 / 147 / ec and 2010 / 63 / eu , regulations no 166 / 2006 and no 995 / 2010 , and council regulations no 338 / 97 and no 2173 / 2005


### in order to address the need for implementation and compliance information , amendments of several pieces of environmental legislation should be introduced taking into account the results of the commission report on actions to streamline environmental report45 and its related fitness check46 . _________________ 45 com 312 . 46 swd 230 . ### in order to address the need for implementation and compliance information , amendments of several pieces of legislation related to the environment should be introduced taking into account the results of the commission report on actions to streamline environmental report45 and its related fitness check46 . _________________ 45 com 312 . 46 swd 230 .


### the member states shall ensure that the information from strategic noise maps and summaries of the action plans as referred to in annex vi are sent to the commission within six months of the dates laid down in articles 7 and 8 respectively . for that purpose , member states shall only report the information electronically to the data repository to be established in accordance with the regulatory procedure with scrutiny referred to in article 13 . in case a member state wants to update information , it shall describe the differences between the updated and original information and the reasons for the update when making the updated information available to the data repository . ### the member states shall ensure that the information from strategic noise maps and summaries of the action plans as referred to in annex vi are sent to the commission within six months of the dates laid down in articles 7 and 8 respectively . for that purpose , member states shall only report the information electronically to a mandatory data repository . in case a member state wants to update information , it shall describe the differences between the updated and original information and the reasons for the update when making the updated information available to the data repository .


### annex vi point 3 is replaced by the following : ### annex vi point 3 is deleted .


### without prejudice to article 20 , the management authorities of the member states shall , one year before each meeting of the conference of the parties to the convention , communicate to the commission all the information relating to the relevant preceding period required for drawing up the reports referred to in article viii . 7 of the convention and equivalent information on the provisions of this regulation that fall outside the scope of the convention . the information to be communicated and the format for its presentation shall be specified by the commission in accordance with the regulatory procedure referred to in article 18 . ### without prejudice to article 20 , the management authorities of the member states shall , one year before each meeting of the conference of the parties to the convention , communicate to the commission all the information relating to the relevant preceding period required for drawing up the reports referred to in article viii . 7 of the convention and equivalent information on the provisions of this regulation that fall outside the scope of the convention . the format for its presentation shall be specified by the commission in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in article 18 .


### as regards the financial management of the eafrd , provision should be made with regard to budget commitments , payment deadlines , decommitment and interruptions . rural develoment interventions are financed from the union ' s budget on the basis of commitments made in annual instalments . member states should be able to draw on the union funds provided for as soon as the cap strategic plans are approved . a suitably restricted prefinancing system is therefore needed , to ensure a steady flow of funds so that payments to beneficiaries under the interventions are made at the appropriate time . ### as regards the financial management of the eafrd established regarding the relevant lines of common provisions regulation , provision should be made with regard to budget commitments , payment deadlines , decommitment and interruptions . rural development interventions are financed from the union ' s budget the basis of commitments made in annual instalments . member states should be able to draw on the union funds provided for as soon as the cap strategic plans are approved . a suitably restricted prefinancing system is therefore needed , to ensure a steady flow of funds so that payments to beneficiaries under the interventions are made at the appropriate time .


### the programme of european surveys on the structure of agricultural holdings , which has been carried out in the union since 1966 , should be continued in order to examine the trends in the structure of agricultural holdings at the union level and to provide the statistical knowledge base necessary for the design , implementation , monitoring and evaluation of related policies , in particular the common agricultural policy and environmental , climate change adaptation and mitigation policies . ### the programme of european surveys on the structure of agricultural holdings , which has been carried out in the union since 1966 , should be continued in order to examine the trends in the structure of agricultural holdings at the union level and to provide the statistical knowledge base necessary for the design , implementation , monitoring and evaluation of related policies , in particular the common agricultural policy and environmental , climate change adaptation and mitigation policies . in future the collection of statistical data , in particular the farm structure survey , should be synchronised with the cap reform cycle in order to inform the decision - making process with updated data .


### where the main survey frame specified under paragraph 2 does not represent 98 % of the utilised agricultural area and 98 % of the livestock units , member states shall extend the frame by establishing lower thresholds than those referred to in paragraph 2 , or by establishing additional thresholds , or both . ### where the main survey frame specified under paragraph 2 does not represent 98 % of the utilised agricultural area and 98 % of the livestock units , member states shall extend the frame in accordance with article 6 by establishing lower thresholds than those referred to in paragraph 2 , or by establishing additional thresholds , or both .


### ‘ soil management practices’ module for 2023 ; ### ‘ greening and soil management practices’ module for 2023 ;


### the power to adopt delegated acts referred to in article 5 and article 8 shall be conferred on the commission for an undetermined period of time from [ publications office : please insert exact date of entry into force of the regulation ] . ### the power to adopt delegated acts referred to in article 5 and article 8 shall be conferred on the commission for a period of five years from . . . [ the date of entry into force of this regulation ] . the commission shall draw up a report in respect of the delegation of power not later than nine months before the end of the five year period . the delegation of power shall be tacitly extended for periods of an identical duration , unless the european parliament or the council opposes such extension not later than three months before the end of each period .


### if yes , is the holding part of a corporate group made up of units that are legally independent ### yes / no


### at the same time , seal hunting is an integral part of the culture and identity of the inuit and other indigenous communities and makes a major contribution to their subsistence . for those reasons , seal hunts traditionally conducted by inuit and other indigenous communities do not raise the same public moral concerns as the hunts conducted primarily for commercial purposes . moreover , it is broadly recognised that the fundamental and social interests of inuit and other indigenous communities should not be adversely affected , in accordance with united nations declaration on the rights of indigenous peoples and other relevant international instruments . for those reasons , by way of exception , regulation no 1007 / 2009 allows the placing on the market of seal products which result from hunts traditionally conducted by inuit and other indigenous communities and which contribute to their subsistence . ### at the same time , seal hunting is an integral part of the socio - economic development , nutrition , culture and identity of the inuit and other indigenous communities and makes a major contribution to their subsistence . for those reasons , seal hunts traditionally conducted by inuit and other indigenous communities do not raise the same public moral concerns as the hunts conducted primarily for commercial purposes . moreover , it is broadly recognised that the fundamental and social interests of inuit and other indigenous communities should not be adversely affected , in accordance with united nations declaration on the rights of indigenous peoples and other relevant international instruments . for those reasons , by way of exception , regulation no 1007 / 2009 allows the placing on the market of seal products which result from hunts traditionally conducted by inuit and other indigenous communities and which contribute to their subsistence .


### a genuinely humane killing method cannot be effectively and consistently applied in the hunts conducted by the inuit and other indigenous communities , just like in the other seal hunts . nonetheless , it is appropriate , in light of the objective pursued by regulation no 1007 / 2009 , to make the placing in the union market of products resulting from hunts by the inuit and other indigenous communities conditional upon those hunts being conducted in a manner which reduces pain , distress , fear or other forms of suffering of the animals hunted to the extent possible , while having regard to the traditional way of life and the subsistence needs of the inuit and other indigenous communities . the exception granted in respect of seal products resulting from hunts conducted by inuit and other indigenous communities should be limited to hunts that contribute to the subsistence need of those communities and are therefore not conducted primarily for commercial purposes . thus , the commission should be enabled to limit , if necessary , the quantity of seal products placed on the market under that exception in order to prevent the use of the exception by products resulting from hunts which are conducted primarily for commercial purposes . ### it is appropriate , in light of the objective pursued by regulation no 1007 / 2009 , to make the placing in the union market of products resulting from hunts by the inuit and other indigenous communities conditional upon those hunts being conducted in a manner which reduces pain , distress , fear or other forms of suffering of the animals hunted to the extent possible , while having regard to the traditional way of life and the subsistence needs of the inuit and other indigenous communities . the exception granted in respect of seal products resulting from hunts conducted by inuit and other indigenous communities should be limited to hunts that contribute to the subsistence need of those communities and are therefore not conducted primarily for commercial purposes . thus , the commission should be enabled to limit , if necessary , the quantity of seal products placed on the market under that exception in order to prevent the use of the exception by products resulting from hunts which are conducted primarily for commercial purposes .


### a genuinely humane killing method cannot be effectively and consistently applied in the hunts conducted by the inuit and other indigenous communities , just like in the other seal hunts . nonetheless , it is appropriate , in light of the objective pursued by regulation no 1007 / 2009 , to make the placing in the union market of products resulting from hunts by the inuit and other indigenous communities conditional upon those hunts being conducted in a manner which reduces pain , distress , fear or other forms of suffering of the animals hunted to the extent possible , while having regard to the traditional way of life and the subsistence needs of the inuit and other indigenous communities . the exception granted in respect of seal products resulting from hunts conducted by inuit and other indigenous communities should be limited to hunts that contribute to the subsistence need of those communities and are therefore not conducted primarily for commercial purposes . thus , the commission should be enabled to limit , if necessary , the quantity of seal products placed on the market under that exception in order to prevent the use of the exception by products resulting from hunts which are conducted primarily for commercial purposes . ### it is appropriate , in light of the objective pursued by regulation no 1007 / 2009 , to make the placing in the union market of products resulting from hunts by the inuit and other indigenous communities conditional upon those hunts being conducted in a sustainable manner , while having regard to the traditional way of life and the subsistence needs of the inuit and other indigenous communities . accordingly , the commission should take measures to inform the public about the objective of regulation no 1007 / 2009 and its exemption concerning products resulting from hunts conducted by indigenous communities , thereby restoring consumer confidence . the exception granted in respect of seal products resulting from hunts conducted by inuit and other indigenous communities should be limited to hunts that contribute to the subsistence need of those communities and are therefore not conducted primarily for commercial purposes . thus , in order to prevent the use of that exception for products resulting from hunts which are conducted primarily for commercial purposes , the power to adopt acts in accordance with article 290 of the treaty should be delegated to the commission in respect of limiting the quantity of seal products placed on the market under that exception and in respect of prohibiting , if necessary , seal products from certain hunts from being placed on the market under that exception . that delegation should be exercised only if necessary , when relevant evidence is presented and where considered appropriate after a consultation with relevant stakeholders .


### if the number of seals hunted , the quantity of seal products being placed on the market pursuant to paragraph 1 or other circumstances are such as to indicate that a hunt is conducted primarily for commercial purposes , the commission shall be empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with article 4 in order to limit the quantity of products resulting from that hunt that may be placed on the market . ### if the number of seals hunted , the quantity of seal products being placed on the market pursuant to paragraph 1 or other circumstances are such as to indicate that a hunt is conducted primarily for commercial purposes , the commission shall be empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with article 4a in order to limit or prohibit the placement on the market of products resulting from that hunt


### article 7 reporting by 20 november 2011 and thereafter every 4 years , member states shall submit to the commission a report outlining the actions taken to implement this regulation . 2 . on the basis of the reports referred to in paragraph 1 , the commission shall report to the european parliament and to the council on the implementation of this regulation within 12 months of the end of each reporting period concerned . ### article 7 is replaced by the following : ' article 7 reporting by 31 december 2016 and every four years thereafter member states shall submit to the commission a report outlining the actions taken to implement this regulation . 2 . the commission shall submit to the european parliament and to the council a report on the implementation of this regulation within 12 months of the end of each reporting period referred to in paragraph 1 . the first report shall be submitted not later than 31 november 2017 . 2a . in its report submitted in accordance with paragraph 2 , the commission shall assess the functioning and effectiveness of this regulation in achieving its objectives . in its assessment the commission shall , in particular , consider the socio - economic development , economic activities and development , nutrition , culture and identity of the inuit and other indigenous communities as well as the effects of this regulation on coastal communities where seal hunts forms part of maritime resource management and contributes to the maritime biodiversity . '


### an important share of the content stored on video - sharing platforms is not under the editorial responsibility of the video - sharing platform provider . however , those providers typically determine the organisation of the content , namely programmes or user - generated videos , including by automatic means or algorithms . therefore , those providers should be required to take appropriate measures to protect minors from content that may impair their physical , mental or moral development and protect all citizens from incitement to violence or hatred directed against a group of persons or a member of such a group defined by reference to sex , race , colour , religion , descent or national or ethnic origin . ### an important share of the content stored on video - sharing platforms is not under the editorial responsibility of the video - sharing platform provider . however , those providers typically determine the organisation of the content , namely programmes or user - generated videos , including by automatic means or algorithms . therefore , those providers are required to take effective measures to protect minors from content that may impair their physical , mental or moral development and protect all citizens from incitement to violence or hatred directed against a group of persons or a member of such a group defined by reference to sex , race , colour , religion , descent or national or ethnic origin .


### the commission and erga shall encourage the exchange of best practices on self - and co - regulatory systems across the union . where appropriate , the commission shall facilitate the development of union codes of conduct . ' ; ### the commission and erga shall ensure the exchange of best practices on self - and co - regulatory systems across the union . where appropriate , the commission shall facilitate the development of union codes of conduct . ' ;


### the commission and erga shall encourage the exchange of best practices on self - and co - regulatory systems across the union . if considered appropriate , the commission shall facilitate the development of union codes of conduct . ' ; ### the commission and erga shall ensure the exchange of best practices on self - and co - regulatory systems across the union . if considered appropriate , the commission shall facilitate the development of union codes of conduct . ” ;


### the commission and erga shall encourage the exchange of best practices on self - and co - regulatory systems across the union . if considered appropriate , the commission shall facilitate the development of union codes of conduct . ### the commission and erga shall encourage the exchange of best practices on co - regulatory systems across the union . if considered appropriate , the commission shall facilitate the development of union codes of conduct .


### a pre - condition for granting the union’s macro - financial assistance should be that ukraine respects effective democratic mechanisms – including a multi - party parliamentary system – and the rule of law , and guarantees respect for human rights . in addition , the specific objectives of the union’s macro - financial assistance should strengthen the efficiency , transparency and accountability of the public finance management systems in ukraine and should promote structural reforms aimed at supporting sustainable and inclusive growth , employment creation and fiscal consolidation . both the fulfilment of the preconditions and the achievement of those objectives should be regularly monitored by the commission and the european external action service . ### a pre - condition for granting the union’s macro - financial assistance should be that ukraine fulfils the conditions attached to past and forthcoming mfa programmes , notably those related to the fight against corruption , and respects effective democratic mechanisms , including a multi - party parliamentary system and the rule of law , which should be supported by an independent judiciary capable of effectively fighting corruption , and guarantees respect for human rights . these political conditions should be agreed with ukraine in a detailed memorandum of understanding . in addition , the specific objectives of the union’s macro - financial assistance should strengthen the efficiency , transparency and accountability of the public finance management systems in ukraine , and promote structural reforms aimed at supporting sustainable and inclusive growth , employment creation and fiscal consolidation . both the fulfilment of the preconditions and the achievement of those objectives should be regularly monitored by the commission and the european external action service throughout the life - cycle of the mfa . the disbursement of the first instalment of financial support should be made available only after the outstanding policy measures which were attached to the final instalment of the previous mfa programme have been fully implemented . the commission should provide a public assessment of the fulfilment of that precondition , including a clear indication of the benchmarks used .