Labels in an era of global uncertainty - now is the time to get together!

It is Easter, and the countdown has started till the European Label Forum. This edition comes at a pivotal moment, as shifting geopolitical dynamics and rising economic uncertainty reshape the global trade environment. The recent protectionist shift by the new US administration has intensified a trend already in motion: a move away from global interdependence toward strategic autonomy.

For decades, the growth of the global labels and packaging sector was fuelled by milestones of economic integration—from the fall of the Berlin Wall and Germany’s reunification to the founding of the WTO and China’s accession in 2001. These events laid the foundation for the globalised, interlinked supply chains that became the backbone of our industry. However, in recent years, this foundation has come under strain.

About European competitiveness

The pandemic, wars, raw material shortages, inflation, and now trade disputes have accelerated deglobalisation. Businesses are increasingly reshoring production to reduce risk and build resilience. In Europe, this shift has exposed critical vulnerabilities and a widening competitiveness gap. Mario Draghi’s 2024 report on EU competitiveness underlined the urgency of reversing this trend. Its recommendations now shape the European Commission’s Competitiveness Compass.

To stay globally competitive, Europe must turn research into commercial success, particularly in digital technologies like AI and cloud computing. This calls for increased investment in R&D, and education. At the same time, the EU must align its ambitious climate goals with industrial competitiveness through a coordinated decarbonization strategy, as high energy costs threaten economic performance. 

Multipolar world unfolding

At the same time, a unified foreign economic policy and greater defence capacity are needed to secure access to critical resources and technologies. At last year’s European Label Forum, keynote speaker Guy Verhofstadt spoke of a multipolar world demanding a stronger, more united Europe. Fast forward one year: the war in Ukraine continues, tensions rise in East Asia, and divisions within NATO deepen. The recent tariff war launched by the US threatens to upend long-established trade flows—challenging the economic principle of comparative advantage that has underpinned global prosperity and industry growth.

Read and download the FINAT Radar #27 Q1-2025 here.

Amid these challenges, shared adversity may also foster unity. But with European label and packaging markets softening since late 2024, industry dialogue is more essential than ever. If there was ever a time to attend the European Label Forum, it is this year.

I look forward to seeing you in Amsterdam, 21–23 May.

Philippe Voet
FINAT President