EPF signs the Antwerp Declaration for a European Industrial Deal

The partners are calling for the Deal to be at the core of the new European Strategic Agenda for 2024-2029. A fulfilment of the Declaration would allow industry to take its position as a key driver towards a “resilient, competitive and sustainable Europe that works for all”.

The Declaration was presented to European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen and to Belgian prime minister Alexander De Croo at the European Industry Summit held in Antwerp on February 20.

Signatories represent a broad spectrum of industries, including wood, paper, chemicals, textiles, steel, glass and ceramics.

EPF chairman Martin Brettenthaler said the Declaration aligns with the EPF’s objectives and strategic directions.

“By prioritising reindustrialisation, especially with natural, innovative sustainable products such as wood-based panels, we can play a vital role in delivering the European Green Deal,” said Mr Brettenthaler.

The European wood-based panels industry’s annual turnover is about €25bn and creates over 100,000 jobs directly in Europe. The EPF said the sector was an integral and innovative part of the EU’s bio and circular economies.