The objectives of “One Europe, One Market” (OEOM) are based on the guidelines set out by the European Council in its conclusions in March 2026. In this context, the implementation of the Roadmap is being given the highest political priority, and the need for cooperation between the European Parliament, the Commission and the Council is emphasised in order to implement the Roadmap as scheduled by the end of 2027 at the latest. At the European Council meeting in June, the Heads of State or Government once again emphasised the urgency of the roadmap and called for decisive progress to be made during 2026. During the Council meeting the President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen stated: “We have made a commitment: to complete the Single Market by the end of next year. This is our One Europe, one Market roadmap. Today’s progress report shows that we are well on our way. We have discussed how we can deliver on this promise to our citizens and business even faster.”

The Roadmap comprises a total of 43 measures, divided into five strategic pillars: (1) Simplifying Legislation, (2) Strengthening the Single Market, (3) Developing Strong Trade Relations, (4) Reducing Energy Prices and Decarbonisation, and (5) Promoting Digital and AI-driven Transformation.

Simplifying Legislation

Simplifying legislation includes the various Omnibus Packages announced by the Commission. The measures set out in the Roadmap include the European Union’s Digital Omnibus, the Tax Omnibus and the Energy Omnibus. In addition, the Commission is to present further Omnibus Packages and simplification initiatives as soon as possible. However, from a labour perspective, there are concerns that these efforts could weaken social protections, which should be avoided.

Strengthening the Single Market

The largest and most important component is Strengthening the Single Market, which comprises a total of 17 measures. A central initiative is the proposed ‘EU Inc.’ framework, targeted for agreement by the end of 2026. This proposal has raised significant concerns, particularly from workers´ perspective. There are fears, for example, that co-determination rights could be undermined. Other planned measures include a package on supplementary pensions, a legislative act on public procurement, a Circular Economy Act and the Industrial Accelerator Act (IAA).

Developing Strong Trade Relations

Developing strong trade relations involves diversifying the EU’s trading partners and reducing dependencies within supply chains. In addition, a revised regulation on Foreign Direct Investment Screening has already been adopted by the European Parliament. The EU intends to maintain and strengthen trade ties with Mexico, the Mercosur states, Switzerland, Indonesia, India and Australia. In addition, new or expanded partnerships are planned with Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines and the United Arab Emirates.

Reducing Energy Prices and Decarbonisation

To lower energy costs, EU institutions are expected to agree on the European Grids Package within the year, alongside launching initiatives such as energy highways. The initiative on energy highways is also due to be launched before the end of this year. Further actions include revising the Emissions Trading Scheme and developing legal frameworks for renewable energy and energy efficiency.

Promoting Digital and AI-Driven Transformation

By the end of 2026, agreement is expected on key initiatives such as the digital euro and European Business Wallets (EBW). Additional priorities include the Cloud and AI Development Act, the Chips Act 2.0 and the Digital Networks Act. Projects related to AI gigafactories are also scheduled to begin from the fourth quarter.

Further information

AK EUROPA: Europe advances digital sovereignty as EU Commission unveils measures to strengthen technological independence
AK EUROPA: Omnibus packages: Public interest under pressure
AK EUROPA: Digital Omnibus Package
AK EUROPA: EU Inc. puts pressure on workers’ rights
AK EUROPA: Consultation on the Circular Economy Act
AK EUROPA: The Industrial Accelerator Act
AK EUROPA: Europe’s Economic Security. Foreign direct investment should face tighter oversight and stronger conditions
AK EUROPA: European Grids Package
Council: ‘One Europe, One Market’
European Council: Summit 19 March 2026