Ireland’s role in shaping Europe’s economic future will come into focus on 24 September 2026, when Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment Peter Burke attends the Competitiveness Council in Brussels. The meeting will examine how the European Union can strengthen industry, technology, innovation and economic security.
The discussions are particularly significant as Ireland holds the Presidency of the Council of the European Union. The agenda includes the proposed European Chips Act 2.0, the review of EU Merger Guidelines and updates on major initiatives designed to support businesses across the Single Market.
Competitiveness Council to examine Europe’s industrial resilience
Ministers responsible for internal market, industry, research and space policy will consider measures to improve Europe’s competitiveness and technological resilience. A central policy debate will focus on the proposed European Chips Act 2.0.
The legislation aims to reinforce the EU semiconductor ecosystem by improving the competitiveness and resilience of the chip supply chain. It also seeks to strengthen crisis preparedness and security of supply—priorities highlighted by global disruption and increasing demand for advanced technologies.
Ireland’s enterprise policy, supported through gov.ie and the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, places strong emphasis on innovation, investment and the ability of companies to compete internationally. Agencies including IDA Ireland and Enterprise Ireland are central to supporting that wider business environment.
Key issues on the Brussels agenda
- Policy discussions on the European Chips Act 2.0
- An exchange of views on the review of EU Merger Guidelines
- Updates on the Industrial Accelerator Act
- Progress on the 28th Regime, also known as EU Inc.
- Information on the proposed European Competitiveness Fund
Merger rules and support for innovative companies
Ministers will also review how EU competition rules should respond to digitalisation, artificial intelligence, data-driven business models and changing economic conditions. The review of the Merger Guidelines is intended to ensure that the EU’s competition framework remains effective and fit for purpose.
Under Any Other Business, the Irish Presidency will provide updates on the Industrial Accelerator Act, the 28th Regime and the European Competitiveness Fund. These initiatives are designed to support industrial decarbonisation, simplify the operating environment for startups and innovative companies, and improve Europe’s economic security.
The 28th Regime, or EU Inc., is intended to make it easier for companies to operate across the Single Market through more consistent conditions. The Industrial Accelerator Act is linked to efforts to support cleaner industry, while the Competitiveness Fund is expected to contribute to Europe’s broader strategic investment priorities.
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Minister Burke highlights Ireland’s European priorities
Before the meeting, Minister Burke said the Council was taking place at an important moment for Europe. He emphasised the need to strengthen the industrial base, support innovation, deepen the Single Market and create opportunities for businesses to grow.
He also said Ireland would work constructively with EU Member States, the European Commission and the European Parliament to advance the files and deliver practical outcomes for citizens and businesses. The Council meeting will be followed by a ministerial lunch focused on embedding economic security in EU competitiveness policy.
The discussions complement Ireland’s wider public policy framework, involving areas such as Finance, Climate Action, Transport, Higher Education and Public Expenditure. National bodies such as the Central Bank and CSO also contribute to the economic information and regulatory environment that informs competitiveness policy.
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What the Competitiveness Council means for Ireland
The meeting provides Ireland with an opportunity to influence decisions affecting technology companies, manufacturers, startups and businesses trading throughout Europe. Semiconductor resilience, competition policy and simpler cross-border rules could all shape the conditions in which Irish enterprises operate.
The Competitiveness Council takes place in Brussels on 24 September 2026. Its outcomes will be watched closely by policymakers, industry representatives and companies seeking greater certainty in a rapidly changing European economy.
Key takeaway: The Competitiveness Council gives Ireland a direct platform to help shape Europe’s industrial, digital and economic strategy, with the European Chips Act 2.0 and business competitiveness at the centre of the agenda.
Article/Image Courtesy: gov.ie
