ECTAA: ‘EU Compass’ for Competitiveness to Strengthen Europe’s Travel Sector

Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, and Stéphane Séjourné, Executive Vice-President of the European Commission for Prosperity and Industrial Strategy, giving a press conference on the compass for the EU’s competitiveness on January 29. Photo source: European Commission

The European Travel Agents’ and Tour Operators’ Association (ECTAA) has welcomed the European Commission’s new “Competitiveness Compass”, a strategic initiative designed to enhance the EU’s global competitiveness, boost innovation, and secure sustainable prosperity.

Announced on Wednesday, the EU Compass outlines key areas for growth, with a focus on reducing regulatory burdens and promoting sustainable investments, making it a critical step for the future of Europe’s travel and tourism industry.

ECTAA President Frank Oostdam praised the Commission for its commitment to streamlining administrative processes and creating a more business-friendly environment.

“We applaud the European Commission’s strong dedication to simplification and competitiveness,” he said. “Reducing administrative burdens while improving access to sustainable investment is vital for our industry.”

Highlighting that travel agents and tour operators are integral to Europe’s economy, Oostdam said the measures will help the travel industry remain “competitive and resilient” amidst evolving challenges.

One of the key aspects of the Competitiveness Compass is its focus on sustainable investments, particularly in the travel and tourism sector. Achieving carbon neutrality in the industry by 2050 is a top priority, with the Commission noting that substantial investments will be needed in areas such as Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAFs), decarbonization technologies, and cross-border rail connectivity. The expansion of the EU’s high-speed rail network also plays a significant role in improving sustainable travel options.

Furthermore, the Compass identifies the need to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in adopting sustainable practices and complying with the EU Green Deal regulations. Such investments are essential not only for mitigating climate change but also for fostering long-term growth within the sector. ECTAA strongly supports this vision, recognizing that sustainability is not just an environmental concern but an economic opportunity for the travel industry.

The Commission’s commitment to reducing regulatory burdens also stands out, with the introduction of the “one in, one out” principle and a “cost brake” to simplify business operations. ECTAA, which represents thousands of travel agencies and tour operators across Europe, views these initiatives as critical in creating a more efficient, less bureaucratic landscape. According to Oostdam, these reforms will streamline administrative processes, lower compliance costs, and enhance operational efficiency for businesses in the travel and tourism sector.

The Competitiveness Compass also aims to support businesses in navigating the challenges of high energy prices by facilitating access to clean, affordable energy. The upcoming Clean Industrial Deal will focus on promoting clean tech and circular business models while securing the EU’s position as a competitive hub for manufacturing, including energy-intensive industries.

In response to these ambitious plans, ECTAA will continue to engage in consultations with the European Commission to ensure that travel agents and tour operators benefit from the proposed measures. The association is committed to working closely with policymakers to ensure that the travel and tourism sector remains at the forefront of EU competitiveness.

ECTAA represents the interests of 80,000 travel agents and tour operators across Europe.