Global standards and European competitiveness - a revision of EU Regulation 1025/2012 that cold profoundly impact European standardization

The uncertainty is palpable for many participating in the European market, the world largest single market. The so-called European Standardization Regulation was put up for debate by the European Commission in a public procedure. Following an internal consultation, stakeholders in standardization were able to present their arguments in the second stage, in which DKE also put forward its position.

For the electrical engineering sector in Germany and Europe, it is about far more than technical details: it is about strategic competitiveness, innovative strength and global connectivity. This could be significantly impacted by the revision of Regulation 1025/2012.

Standardization under pressure - Europe's strategic challenge

European standardization stands at a strategic crossroads. With the planned revision of Regulation 1025/2012, the focus is shifting to a system that has so far tended to operate in the shadows of political debates - and yet plays a key role in determining how a competitive Europe remains in the global technology environment.

Electrical engineering is international by nature. Its technologies cross borders, hence its standards must be globally compatible. Around 85% of European electrotechnical standards are based directly on international IEC standards - a clear sign of the importance of global cooperation.

A European Standardization System 2.0 - DKE's vision for strategic standardization

A sustainable European standardization system must combine stability and innovative strength. DKE proposes six guiding principles for a new European Standardization System (ESS) that will secure Europe's technological leadership and at the same time promote social participation:

1. Maintain a stable foundation for global competitiveness
2. Accelerate the introduction of innovations and the development of standards - without compromising on quality
3. Defend inclusivity through the national delegation principle
4. Ensure the financial sustainability of the ESS
5. Strengthen Europe's global role through strategic partnerships
6. Align standards and quality infrastructure for a stronger, smarter Europe

These principles provide guidance for politics and business.

Speed, quality and inclusivity - the benchmarks in global competition between systems

Technologies such as AI, cybersecurity and the circular economy require fast but reliable standards. Digital tools should simplify processes without jeopardizing technical excellence through experts, diverse perspectives through broad participation and decision-making through consensus - principles that are anchored in standardization. DKE is one of the global pioneers in the development of such digital solutions.

Europe is in competition with regions that are strategically expanding their standardization presence. Withdrawal from ESS means loss of influence. DKE relies on international partnerships - for example with India, Brazil or Indonesia - to anchor European values worldwide.

Public consultation on Regulation 1025/2012

Together with our stakeholders from industry, science, politics, society and other groups, we want to ensure that the high values of the existing system are strengthened and that opportunities for innovation are used wisely. Everyone had the opportunity to submit comments.

The European Commission opened a website for public consultation until 17 December 2025 where companies, organizations and citizens could contribute their perspectives. DKE also called for active participation — for a standardization system that strengthens Europe's innovative power. A total of 599 comments were received, with the largest share (over 20%) coming from Germany.

Conclusion - European standardization is a project for the future

The revision of Regulation 1025/2012 is an opportunity to strategically realign Europe's standardization. DKE is actively contributing its expertise - through pilot projects, international cooperation and digital innovations. Because only together can Europe set standards that will endure worldwide.

Standardization and policy

Standardization policy-related action is what makes the development process of standards and specifications possible in the first place. Its purpose is to disseminate, improve and fully demonstrate the extensive benefits of standards and specifications for society, economy, science and state.