New EIB-EC Report Shows Intra-EU Trade and Tech Investments Cushion Firms from Global Disruptions

New EIB-EC Report Shows Intra-EU Trade and Tech Investments Cushion Firms from Global Disruptions

(IN BRIEF) The EIB and European Commission’s collaborative report “Shock Waves from Turbulent Times” surveys 850 EU importers and finds that EU businesses have swiftly adapted to recent global supply-chain shocks. Key resilience strategies include investing in digital tracking (adopted by 25% of firms), diversifying supplier networks, and leveraging intra-EU trade routes. While these measures have generally bolstered competitiveness, importers reliant on critical Chinese inputs and specialized technologies reported greater disruption and fewer viable EU-based alternatives. EIB Chief Economist Debora Revoltella emphasizes that enhancing economic security can drive both resilience and sustainable growth. European Commission economist Román Arjona notes that, despite reduced stress, firms maintain high risk awareness and face challenges securing substitutes for essential imports. The report underscores the importance of finance and policy support and highlights the EU single market’s pivotal role in fortifying supply-chain stability.

(PRESS RELEASE) LUXEMBOURG, 27-Jun-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — A recent joint study by the European Investment Bank (EIB) and the European Commission reveals that companies across the European Union have demonstrated exceptional adaptability in the face of global supply-chain disruptions. Titled “Shock Waves from Turbulent Times: How EU Businesses Recalibrate Supply Chains,” the report draws on a survey of around 850 EU importers of both goods and services conducted between May and October 2024.

According to the findings, one quarter of EU firms have allocated resources toward digital tracking solutions to reinforce their logistical networks. Beyond digitization, many businesses have broadened their sourcing strategies—adding new supplier countries to reduce overreliance on any single market. This diversification, coupled with intra-EU trade channels, has acted as a buffer against external shocks.

However, the study highlights that importers dependent on critical inputs from China were particularly vulnerable, reporting more frequent disruptions and encountering greater difficulty securing alternative suppliers within the EU. Companies that rely on specialized technologies also acknowledged heightened exposure to geopolitical risk.

“Global trade uncertainties offer us a chance to solidify the EU’s standing as a dependable partner,” stated Debora Revoltella, Chief Economist at the EIB. “By strengthening our economic security framework, we not only build resilience but also stimulate sustainable growth for European businesses.”

Román Arjona, Chief Economist in the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Internal Market, Industry, Entrepreneurship and SMEs, added, “While supply-chain stress has eased compared to last year, firms remain acutely aware of lingering risks. Our joint analysis underscores that bolstering supply-chain resilience can be especially challenging for essential imports where alternative sources are scarce.”

The report further notes that access to financing and supportive policy measures have been instrumental in helping EU companies navigate past disruptions. It concludes that, amid ongoing global uncertainty, the integrated European single market remains a vital and under-leveraged asset for enhancing corporate stability.

About the EIB

The European Investment Bank is the long-term lending institution of the European Union owned by its Member States. It provides finance and expertise for projects that contribute to EU objectives. The EIB Group works closely with public and private sector partners to support sustainable investment, job creation, economic growth and innovation across Europe.

About the DG-GROW

The Directorate General for Internal Market, Industry, Entrepreneurship and SMEs (DG GROW) is the Commission department that works to support an open, seamless and resilient Single Market, with open borders and free flow of goods and services. The department supports the competitiveness, growth and resilience of the EU economy, while focusing on strengthening the leadership of European industries across different industrial ecosystems.

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SOURCE: European Investment Bank