New BusinessEurope President Pierre Gattaz: EU to retain leadership in times of trade protectionism

Today, Pierre Gattaz has taken office as President of BusinessEurope. CEO of Radiall and former President of the French business and employer federation Medef, he is succeeding Emma Marcegaglia. Two of his top priorities will be to increase employment and growth across Europe and to fight against protectionism. Commenting on the latest developments in international trade.

New BusinessEurope President Pierre Gattaz said: “In times of unilateral actions that undermine trade rules and the institutions that enforce them, Europe must show international leadership. We are very concerned about an escalation of measures and countermeasures that could turn into a full trade war. Open markets and rules-based trade are key to retain international leadership and support the competitiveness of European businesses.”

Talking about how Europe should respond he added: “The European Union should continue to protect its interests in line with WTO rules and power ahead with a positive trade agenda, concluding ambitious agreements with like-minded partners. By signing the EU-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement next week we show how we can work together, opening markets and modernising trading rules that benefit both companies and citizens in the EU and in Japan.”