Boosting services in the Single Market

The package is made up of a Communication (COM(2012)261) on the implementation of the Services Directive, along with three Commission Staff Working Documents.

In adopting the 'services package', the Commission is taking stock of Member States’ progress to date in implementing the EU’s Services Directive. It also identifies restrictions that have not yet been abolished and proposes ways to unlock the sector’s growth potential.

A comprehensive study carried out by the Commission shows that the directive brings significant economic benefits in terms of GDP growth, which is indispensable amid an increasing need to identify sources of new growth. However, further measures are needed to fully realise the objectives of the Services Directive and deliver a well-functioning Single Market for services benefiting both businesses and consumers.

Detailed analyses of the services sector are provided in the Commission Staff Working Documents.

The first paper presents the state of play of the implementation of the key provisions of the Services Directive and the remaining problems, as well as the state of play of the 'Points of Single Contact’, including an assessment of individual Member States.

It is complemented by an economic assessment showing the effects and the growth potential offered by the Directive.

The second paper on the principle of non-discrimination by businesses of service recipients on the basis of nationality or country of residence seeks to clarify Article 20 (2) of the Services Directive.

Last but not least, the third paper identifies several obstacles to doing business across the EU that were highlighted in the performance check, which aimed to show how different EU rules are applied to businesses in their day-to-day activities.

For all related documents please go to:
http://ec.europa.eu/internal_market/services/services-dir/implementation_report_en.htm