Trade unions and employers are urging Flemish government negotiators to develop an industrial strategy focused on a domestic production base, to reduce reliance on other continents.
This call comes from the Socio-Economic Council of Flanders (SERV), the consultative body between trade unions and employers in the region. They emphasise the need for a well-functioning economy and labour market as the engine to drive local prosperity.
Specifically, unions and employer organisations advocate for a clearer innovation policy, the launch of a training initiative, and better utilisation of European Union programmes and tools. They also request thoughtful public investments in infrastructure, reduced administrative burdens, and workable procedures for legal certainty.
According to SERV, geopolitical tensions and increasing protectionism underscore the importance of a domestic production base in Europe and Flanders, to reduce dependence on other continents for food and strategic components and products.
