Implementation Dialogue: Commission gathers business to discuss non-preferential EU Rules of Origin

On Friday, Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security Maroš Šefčovič hosted a strategic Implementation Dialogue focused on non-preferential EU Rules of Origin from a business perspective. These are the rules that determine the country of origin of goods imported into the EU. The meeting brought together industry leaders from a diverse range of sectors, including automotive, chemicals, agriculture, energy, textiles, steel and metals, food and beverages, alongside representatives of international business and trade associations.

As global supply chains become more integrated and legislation based on origin becomes more and more relevant, the feedback gathered from the stakeholders will play a crucial role in jointly establishing priorities, long-term visions, opportunities, and key actions.

The insights will feed into to the ongoing evaluation of the EU Rules of Origin, which also articulate with the ongoing negotiation of the Reform of the EU Customs Union and the Commission efforts with respect to simplification and digitalisation.

Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security, Maroš Šefčovič, emphasised the importance of ongoing dialogue with companies and associations by stating: “Our discussions are vital to ensuring that the Rules of Origin effectively support EU trade strategies and sustainable economic growth, as well as ensuring proper implementation of EU legislation. It is crucial that we remain connected with industries, understand their challenges with Rules of Origin, and collaboratively explore viable solutions that can shape future policy directions. This effort is part of the EU's wider commitment to ensuring that its trade measures are responsive to contemporary economic needs, ultimately fostering stronger cross-border trade and partnerships.”

A summary of the conclusions from Friday's dialogue is available on the dedicated webpage.  

Background

Implementation Dialogues

Implementation Dialogues are a consultation tool at the political level launched in the spring of 2025. The Communication for a Simpler and Faster Europe outlines this new approach to make EU laws and policies simpler and to implement them better. The main purpose is to strengthen and boost European competitiveness by seeking feedback from stakeholders to facilitate the implementation of EU policies and the simplification of EU rules and spending programs. These meetings will be held by Commissioners twice per year and the outcomes will be made available to the wider public. 

More information: Implementation Dialogues 

Non-preferential origin

Non-preferential rules of origin are used to determine the country of origin of goods for the application of the most-favoured nation treatment (MFN) but also for the implementation of a number of commercial policy measures such as anti-dumping and countervailing duties, trade embargoes, safeguard measures and quantitative restrictions or tariff quotas. They are also used for trade statistics, public tenders and origin marking. The EU applies its own non-preferential rules of origin, which may be different from those of other non-EU countries.

More information: Origin of the Goods