Why "Made in EU" Matters

Italy holds a special place in my heart as the first European country I worked in, handling angora fiber for export. During my visits to Bella and Prato, I witnessed the thriving spinning mills and the bustling textile industry. However, in the past two decades, Italy has experienced a significant decline in its spinning industry, losing its crown to Chinese spinners.

This decline has had far-reaching consequences, as many factories closed, leading to job losses and an influx of people into low-paying service sector jobs. Germany, with its unique company structure that prevents abrupt closures, has fared better in comparison. It's worth considering such setups to mitigate the impact of globalization and protect domestic industries.

While some hope for profits and opportunities from the vast Chinese market, it's important to understand the complexities of the Chinese economy and the need for cautious optimism. European businesses often dream of capturing a small portion of the Chinese market, but they must also be prepared for Chinese companies to compete aggressively once those opportunities arise.

It's crucial to remember the realities of living in a free world and not be blind to the devilish aspects of dictatorship regimes. Europe, too, must be cautious in its dealings with Russia. The recent invasion of Ukraine served as a wake-up call, highlighting the importance of vigilance and human rights advocacy.

The European Union, with its 27 member countries, offers a unique opportunity for economic unification and prosperity. By capitalizing on the diverse strengths and resources of each country, the EU can create a powerful economic bloc with a shared democratic system. However, this requires thoughtful execution and policies that encourage EU and international brands to prioritize "Made in EU" products.

To drive this commitment, brands and companies should be required to ensure that 50% of their total purchase volume comes from EU sources within the next 10 years. Failure to meet this goal should result in additional taxes. As consumers, we must use our purchasing power to support brands and companies that align with these commitments.

While some brands already prioritize EU manufacturing, there are many more that need to make this commitment. The creation of manufacturing jobs, whether through automation or traditional craftsmanship, can empower EU citizens and bring economic prosperity to all member states. A stronger EU, built on a solid manufacturing foundation, not only benefits its own people but also contributes to global peace and prosperity.

We must take action now to build a strong EU economy that benefits all member states. By committing to "Made in EU" and supporting brands that align with this goal, we can create a more sustainable and powerful EU—one that sets an example for the world and fosters human prosperity.

Pan Pan

Founder

5010.ORG

Commit to Made in EU