Logistics industry calls on EU institutions to place the sector at the heart of the European Agenda

The Alliance for European Logistics (AEL) launched its re-newed Declaration aiming to work closely with the EU institutions towards a competitive European economy.

Representing major EU players, the members of AEL ask to the new Commission and European Parliament to enable the logistics sector to fully contribute to the EU’s 2020 strategy prioritising the enforcement of the EU internal market.

“The free movement of goods is one of the main pillars of the foundation of the European Union. The logistics sector is essential to make this possible as it constitutes the backbone of Europe’s economy. Thus, we need to work more closely with EU policy-makers towards an integrated EU Policy Agenda”, explained Dr. Frank Appel, member of AEL and CEO of Deutsche Post DHL. “If Europe wants to remain a competitive market, logistics must be at the top of the agenda”.

AEL’s Declaration specifically asks EU institutions to cut excessive red tape and ensure the proper enforcement of legislation. It also calls for a transport policy to be at the core of the EU agenda for the next five years recognising the need for flexibility and efficiency across all modes of transport.

“An efficient intermodal transport network is the key for Europe’s competitiveness. As funding is limited, infrastructure investments should be made according to objective criteria which are tailored to suit market needs. Through intelligent intermodal solutions, European industry and business will continue to invest in Europe which benefits our economy as a whole”, said Erich Staake, CEO of duisport.

“We can only foster innovation and leadership in logistics if industry and regulators recognise the critical role played by information technologies”, Anders Gustavsson, CEO of Zebra Technologies, added.  To enhance cooperation between industry and policy makers, AEL proposes to establish a High-Level Advisory Group on Logistics.

MEP Ismail Ertug, S&D Coordinator for the European Parliament’s Transport Committee, who hosted the launch event of AEL’s declaration highlighted that “logistics plays a critical role in Europe’s competitiveness, growth and sustainability. The highest degree of cooperation is certainly the way forward to guarantee a dynamic logistics sector that keeps our goods moving in an increasingly interconnected Europe”.

Quelle: Alliance for European Logistics (AEL)