Doing Business In Europe

The EU is the largest integrated economy in the world with its 28 markets, a consumer base of over 510 million people and a GDP of over $ 21.7 trillion (2016). The EU is also one of the largest public markets, with an estimated value of $ 3.0 trillion per year, and the largest services market in the world. Leader in innovation, the EU is the largest source of foreign investment (when intra-EU investment is included) and the largest trader of goods.

The EU is a massive economy with great potential for growth, especially the countries of the East. It is also the second largest consumer market in the world and the largest service market in the world. The following sectors have been identified as having excellent opportunities: aerospace, agriculture and agri-food, automotive, clean technologies, fish and seafood, forestry and wood products, information and communications technology, infrastructure, medical devices, metals, minerals and mining products, oil and gas and pharmaceuticals. Regional and sub-regional differences within the EU, in terms of regulation, market dynamics and economic trends, offer companies a diversity of opportunities.

It’s important to have a particular attention to the markets for the achievement of the SDGs. In the 2014 edition of the World Investment Report, UNCTAD assessed for the first time the amount of investments necessary to achieve the SDGs in 10 relevant sectors (covering each of the 17 goals) and a estimated the investment gap at $ 2.5 trillion per year in the developing countries among others in Europe. Since then, investments in favor of the SDGs, from both domestic and international sources, public and private, made clear progress in six of the 10 key sectors, namely infrastructure, climate change mitigation, food and agriculture, health, telecommunications, and ecosystems and biodiversity.

Funds for sustainable development have grown rapidly in number, in diversity and size. According to UNCTAD estimates, they represent today between $ 1.2 trillion and $ 1.3 trillion. However, most investments of these funds are made in developed countries (e.g. example, in renewable energy). Businesses and institutional investors agree that their investments and their decisions must serve the SDGs. The SDGs generate more and more investor interest and more and more importance in business impact reports. The quality of the information published and the harmonization of information standards are decisive.

As you can see, europe is the market to be in at all times. but beware, this is an extremely competitive market! you have to be well equipped and well supported.

Do you want to get started? are you looking for a solid partner who knows the EU market very well? Don't hesitate to contact us.