“We provided President von der Leyen with perspectives of crafts and SMEs, stressing the importance of developing policy based on the majority of companies in our economy”, said SMEunited President Galli following a meeting between Commission President von der Leyen and SMEunited’s Board of Directors.
President Galli insisted that the “Think Small First” principle must be translated into concrete policy decisions: “Micro-companies with fewer than 10 employees make up 94% of companies in Europe, yet we are still treated as exemptions. Legislation must be designed from our perspective, including a systematic assessment of impacts and the integration of SME-friendly provisions”.
SMEunited underlined that simplification must go beyond reducing reporting obligations and should address the volume of rules SMEs must comply with. Furthermore, entrepreneurs called for practical measures such as clear guidance, reasonable transition periods, and an “advise first, sanction later” approach.
Against the current geopolitical backdrop, SMEunited highlighted the need for stability and access to affordable energy, warning against distortionary measures. The focus, the association argued, should be on efficiency, investments in energy systems, including grids and storage, and targeted support.
SMEunited also called for renewed efforts to strengthen the Single Market by reducing fragmentation and ensuring consistent implementation and enforcement of EU rules across Member States.
Looking ahead, the organisation urged the Commission to ensure strong SME support in the next Multiannual Financial Framework. This includes accessible funding, SME involvement in governance, and targeted financial instruments to support investment and innovation.
Finally, SMEunited members called on the Commission to apply a temporary “stop-the-clock” on the implementation of the Pay Transparency Directive. While SMEunited fully supports closing the gender pay gap, the Directive’s current timeline does not allow SME employers to thoroughly assess and adopt its requirements.
SMEunited emphasised that it stands ready to work with the European Commission to ensure that EU policies deliver tangible results for SMEs across Europe.
