EBOWN Concludes 2025 Global Meeting Online: Aligning Network Priorities and EU Policy Engagement
1 & 3 December 2025 – The European Business Organisation Worldwide Network (EBOWN) successfully held its latest global network meeting on December 1st and 3rd. Building on the momentum generated from the network’s annual meeting in Brussels in June, this two-day virtual link-up was dedicated to internal alignment and deepening engagement with the European Commission, reinforcing a commission mission to bolster the global competitiveness of European businesses. Over 60 delegates from the global network participated, showcasing the strength and reach of the EBOWN.
Network Alignment and Strategic Dialogue
The meeting began with an Internal Network Session, focusing on strengthening organisational foundations and charting priorities for 2026. This day featured comprehensive reports from EBO Board members and Working Group leads, a briefing from the Executive Director, and the formal welcoming of five new EBOs (Colombia, Guyana, Kenya, Liberia, and Mozambique). Regional Co-ordinators provided vital on-the-ground insights from six global clusters. The afternoon was dedicated to future-proofing EBO activities, covering financial reporting, governance compliance, and strategic planning for key initiatives like the Business Sentiment Report, and update on global FTA Negotiations, and participation in the Global Gateway.
The engagement continued on December 3rd with the EU Policy Engagement Session, where EBO representatives discussed key developments in EU policies with European Commission officials, reinforcing the EBOWN network’s role as an effective bridge between the EU institutions in Brussels, and European business organisations operating in third country markets across the globe. Meetings were held with DG Trade – Geraldine Emberger to discuss Implementation, Enforcement & FTAs, highlighting that trade with preferential partners has significantly outperformed non-FTA partners despite emerging trade barriers. Subsequent discussions were with DG INTPA—Nicolas Fichers updates on Global Gateway Business Advisory Group and the launch of the Investment Hub, which serves as a single entry point for project proposals. Our final session was held with DG GROW and DG Energy, where Malgorzata Pitala presented the Simplification Omnibus, emphasising its role in ensuring new policies benefit SMEs and facilitating stakeholder dialogue; and with Carl-Christian Kuehl and Ignacio Baena outlined the Critical Raw Materials Mechanism, detailing the EU’s strategy to aggregate demand and connect with international suppliers to support decarbonisation efforts.
The EBO Platform: Amplifying the Voice of European Business
The EBOWN Network serves as the sole global platform representing European business interests in the third market. Its aim is multifaceted: to provide a platform for EBOs to share best practices, advocate for European business in third markets, and strengthen the links between EU institutions and EBOs. European Business Organisations (EBOs) are the ‘eyes and ears’ of Team Europe on the ground. They deliver vital local market expertise, act as a transparent body for access to foreign markets, and help European companies—especially SMEs—
The conclusion of the EBOWN Network Meeting served not merely as a wrap-up, but as a strong platform for reaffirming the network’s dedication to its core mission and unveiling its strategic vision for the coming years.
EBOWN remains committed in promoting fair trade, facilitating constructive dialogue, and vigorously amplifying the voice of the European private sector on the global stage. This commitment underpins every action and advocacy effort undertaken by the network and its members.
Looking ahead to 2026, EBOWN is fully energised and strategically focused on launching several new initiatives designed to enhance the network’s impact and value proposition. These efforts will center on three key pillars:
- Expanding Geographical Reach: Systematically growing the network’s presence in strategic and emerging markets to provide wider support for European companies.
- Deepening Policy Engagement: Strengthening consultative ties with EU institutions and local governments to ensure the practical experiences of European businesses effectively inform policy development.
- Delivering Greater Member Value: Implementing enhanced digital tools and fostering collaborative projects to increase efficiency, share knowledge, and boost the competitiveness of its members.
As a dynamic global platform, EBOWN is open to collaboration opportunities and dedicated to fostering strategic partnerships. The network welcomes organisations interested in sharing insights and engaging with our expansive community to explore avenues for mutual growth and enhanced global business environments.
