Legal assistants Povilas Virbašius and Viktorija Markovaite compiled the material.
Competition & Regulatory | Energy & Infrastructure
New State Aid Framework to Support Clean Industrial Transition
Update: 25 June 2025
The European Commission has adopted the Clean Industrial Deal Framework (CISAF), a new State aid framework aimed at accelerating the EU’s shift toward clean energy, decarbonisation, and clean tech development. Replacing the Temporary Crisis and Transition Framework, the CISAF simplifies aid rules for investments in renewable energy, low-carbon fuels, energy-intensive industries, and clean tech manufacturing. It also allows Member States to offer targeted support and de-risk private investments through loans, equity, or guarantees. The framework will remain in place until 31 December 2030, providing long-term clarity for governments and investors
Competition & Regulatory
Commission Clears SES Acquisition of Intelsat Without Conditions
Update: 10 June 2025
The Commission has approved, under the EU Merger Regulation, the acquisition of Intelsat by SES following a Phase I review. Both companies operate geostationary satellite networks and provide satellite capacity and services across media, aviation, maritime, and government sectors. The Commission found that the merger would not significantly reduce competition in the EEA, noting continued pressure from rival satellite operators and terrestrial alternatives such as fibre. The transaction was cleared unconditionally.
Technology, Media & Telecommunications
Commission Proposes EU Space Act to Harmonise and Regulate the Growing Space Sector
Update: 26 June 2025
The European Commission has proposed the EU Space Act as part of a broader legislative package to strengthen Europe’s role in the global space economy. The proposal introduces common rules for safety, cybersecurity, and environmental sustainability, replacing fragmented national regulations. It will apply to both EU and non-EU operators offering space services in the EU, with scaled obligations depending on company size and risk profile. Aimed at enhancing competitiveness, the package also includes support for SMEs and start-ups, and is complemented by the Commission’s new strategic roadmap, the Vision for the European Space Economy.
See also news article.
Energy & Infrastructure
Commission Issues Infringement Decisions on Energy Rules Compliance
Update: 18 June 2025
As part of its June infringement package, the European Commission launched enforcement action against several Member States for failure to comply with key EU energy laws. Letters of formal notice were sent to Portugal and Romania for insufficient enforcement of ecodesign and energy labelling rules. Meanwhile, Greece and Finland received reasoned opinions for not fully transposing provisions of the revised Renewable Energy Directive, particularly those aimed at simplifying and accelerating permitting procedures. If the Member States do not address the issues within two months, the Commission may refer the cases to the Court of Justice.
Commission launches strategy to make Europe Quantum leader by 2030
Update: 2 July 2025
European Commission unveiled its Quantum Strategy, aiming to position Europe as a global quantum leader by 2030. The Strategy outlines actions to build a resilient, sovereign quantum ecosystem, support startups, and translate scientific breakthroughs into market-ready technologies. It focuses on five key areas: research and innovation, infrastructure, ecosystem development, dual-use and space technologies, and skills. Key initiatives include launching a joint research initiative, establishing quantum chip pilot lines, expanding quantum competence clusters, and creating a European Quantum Skills Academy. The Strategy also sets the stage for a future Quantum Act to drive industrialisation and investment across the EU.
Trade
Commission restricts Chinese participation in medical devices procurement Update
Update: 20 June 2025
The European Commission has imposed restrictions on Chinese companies participating in EU public procurement of medical devices worth over €5 million, following its first investigation under the International Procurement Instrument (IPI). The measure is a response to China’s discriminatory practices, where 87% of public tenders exclude EU-made medical devices. The new rules limit Chinese input to 50% in successful bids but allow exceptions where no alternatives exist. The move aims to defend EU businesses while encouraging China to open its procurement market on reciprocal terms.
Life Sciences & Healthcare
Commission launches new strategy to make Europe a global leader in life sciences by 2030
Update: 2 July 2025
The European Commission has launched a new Life Sciences Strategy to make Europe the world’s most attractive hub for life sciences by 2030. Backed by over €10 billion annually, the strategy aims to accelerate innovation, improve market access, and build public trust in technologies that support health, sustainability, and economic growth. Key actions include an EU investment plan for clinical trials, a forthcoming EU Biotech Act, and €300 million to boost uptake of innovations like next-gen vaccines and cancer solutions. The strategy also promotes cross-sectoral collaboration, skills development, and stronger alignment across EU policies and funding.
