EU Law and Industrial Policy

Our expertise

PwC Legal has extensive expertise in the field of European law. We advise businesses, trade associations and public authorities on the legal frameworks arising from European Union law and their impact on their activities and competitive position.

Examples of what we can do for you

Internal Market and Free Movement

PwC Legal advises on the application of the fundamental freedoms of the internal market: the free movement of goods, services, persons and capital. We assist businesses in identifying and challenging national measures that create barriers to trade and advise on the opportunities the internal market offers for cross-border expansion.

European Legislative Processes and Advocacy

We support businesses and trade associations in monitoring and influencing European legislative processes. PwC Legal maps the impact of proposed legislation and advises on effective public affairs and advocacy strategies in Brussels.

Trade Policy and Market Access

PwC Legal advises on the legal aspects of European trade policy, including free trade agreements, trade defence instruments and export controls. We assist businesses with issues relating to anti-dumping and anti-subsidy measures, rules of origin and market access to third countries.

Strategic Autonomy and Industrial Policy

The European Union is increasingly focusing on strategic autonomy and strengthening European competitiveness. PwC Legal closely monitors these developments and advises businesses on the legal implications of initiatives such as the Net-Zero Industry Act, the Critical Raw Materials Act, the European Chips Act and European industrial policy. We help clients identify opportunities and manage risks in a changing geopolitical landscape.

Investment Screening and FDI Screening

In the context of protecting strategic interests and national security, EU Member States are subjecting foreign investments to increasing scrutiny. PwC Legal advises investors and target companies on the Dutch Security Screening of Investments, Mergers and Acquisitions Act (Wet vifo) and similar legislation in other Member States. We guide clients through notification procedures and advise on the structuring of transactions.

Sanctions and Export Control

We advise businesses on compliance with European sanctions regimes and export control regulations. PwC Legal assists in setting up compliance programmes, screening relationships and transactions, and applying for licences. We also represent clients in enforcement proceedings and in challenging listings.

Proceedings before European Commission

PwC Legal represents clients in proceedings before the European Commission.

Implementation of European Legislation

We advise businesses on the implementation of European directives and regulations into national law and the consequences for their business operations. PwC Legal identifies relevant developments in a timely manner and assists in adapting internal processes, contracts and compliance structures.

Our approach

PwC Legal combines in-depth knowledge of European law with a keen eye for the strategic and commercial interests of our clients. We understand that European legislation brings both challenges and opportunities, and that the ability to anticipate legal developments quickly and effectively is an important competitive factor. Through our global PwC network, we have direct access to experts in all EU Member States and beyond, enabling us to assist clients with cross-border issues with a European dimension.

Please feel free to contact us for an initial conversation.

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Contact us

Allard Knook

Allard Knook

Partner, PwC Netherlands

Tel: +31 (0)63 437 77 85

Skip van Duren

Skip van Duren

Senior Manager Legal, PwC Netherlands

Tel: +31 (0)63 987 32 92

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