In this issue we present an exclusive interview with Matteo Borsani, Director of the Confindustria Delegation to the European Union, who offers an in-depth look at the role of Italian industrial representation in Brussels, at the importance of European alliances and at the growing impact of EU legislation on the competitiveness of businesses, highlighting the concrete services made available to companies and associations.
Director, what is the mission of the Delegation in Brussels?
To be present where European rules are made. Since 1958 we have represented the interests of Italian industry at the moment when directives and regulations are drafted and negotiated. The aim is to ensure that the needs of our production system are taken into account from the very beginning of the legislative process.
Does lobbying in Brussels have a different connotation compared to Italy?
Yes. Here representation activity is structured and transparent: almost 17,000 organisations are registered in the European Transparency Register. It is technical work, based on data and analysis, and geared towards mediation. It is not about opposition, but about building solid and credible compromises.
How much do European alliances matter?
Enormously. We also operate within BusinessEurope, where common positions of European industry are defined. In addition, we work with partners such as BDI in Germany, MEDEF in France and CEOE in Spain. When industrial priorities converge, the political weight increases and the proposals become more incisive.
Which institutions do you engage with?
With all of them: the Commission, the Council and the European Parliament. In the initial phase we provide technical input to the Commission; subsequently we engage with Parliament and the Member States to improve legislative texts, flagging critical issues and proposing solutions consistent with industrial competitiveness.
Beyond representation, what services do you offer to businesses?
Legislative monitoring, update webinars, support on EU calls for tenders, preliminary assistance on projects and the search for European partners. We also provide a constant flow of information towards Italy, with newsletters, reviews and moments of discussion to keep associations and companies up to date on the main regulatory developments. We accompany companies in interpreting the rules and the funding opportunities.
What is the added value of your presence in Brussels?
Reducing the distance between Europe and businesses. A growing share of rules originates at EU level: overseeing that level means having an impact before the rules become final. And it is there that a decisive part of Italian competitiveness is played out.
Interview conducted by the Confindustria Delegation to the European Union.
