The EU Commission has presented its proposal for the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) covering the period 2028 to 2034. With an overall envelope of €2 trillion, the proposal is significantly larger than the current budget and introduces major reforms to simplify EU funding and increase flexibility.

Among the key elements is the creation of a European Competitiveness Fund, bringing together several existing programmes under a €409 billion budget. It will support the scaling up, manufacturing and deployment of strategic technologies in Europe, with potential relevance for the maritime and boating sectors. Horizon Europe will continue with €175 billion for research and innovation.

Tourism is included for the first time as a strategic priority. National and regional programmes will be required to take into account the specific needs of the tourism sector, while the European Competitiveness Fund will support SMEs working towards sustainability. This could open opportunities for nautical tourism, marinas and related infrastructure.

The proposal also includes a new own-resource scheme, the Corporate Resource for Europe, which would require large companies with a turnover above €100 million to pay a lump sum tax between €100,000 and €750,000 annually. This element has already met resistance from businesses and EU countries and may not be approved. Negotiations on the MFF are expected to continue until 2027, with final approval needed by the European Parliament and Member States. EBI will follow the process and provide guidance to the industry once the outcome becomes clearer.