CBAM and trade competitiveness: can they coexist?

The European Commission has proposed implementing a Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) to combat carbon leakage and phase out the EU Emissions Trading System’s free allowance. In its current form, the CBAM challenges not only European export competitiveness in markets that have lower or no carbon prices but also the EU’s ability to stem carbon leakage. However, with an adjustment for exports, the EU can not only keep the playing field even for businesses but also protect our planet. Read AmCham EU’s perspectives on how to improve the CBAM and learn more about its impact on international trade.

News
12 May 2022
Environment, Energy
CBAM and trade competitiveness: can they coexist?

The European Commission has proposed implementing a Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) to combat carbon leakage and phase out the EU Emissions Trading System’s free allowance. In its current form, the CBAM challenges not only European export competitiveness in markets that have lower or no carbon prices but also the EU’s ability to stem carbon leakage. However, with an adjustment for exports, the EU can not only keep the playing field even for businesses but also protect our planet. Read AmCham EU’s perspectives on how to improve the CBAM and learn more about its impact on international trade.

Related items

Position Paper
24 Feb 2026

Industry coalition calls for Internal market legal basis in the Circular Economy Act

Together with industry associations representing a wide range of sectors, AmCham EU has signed a joint statement calling for the upcoming Circular Economy Act to be grounded in an internal market legal basis. The statement highlights the need for harmonised EU rules to address fragmentation in waste management systems across Member States and support the development of a functioning Single Market for secondary raw materials. It also underlines the importance of a consistent EU framework to strengthen circularity, improve waste management performance and support investment in recycling and resource efficiency.

Environment
Read more
Read more about Industry coalition calls for Internal market legal basis in the Circular Economy Act
News
18 Feb 2026

AmCham EU meets with US Assistant Secretary of State for Economic, Energy and Business Affairs

On Tuesday, 17 February, AmCham EU met with Caleb Orr, US Assistant Secretary of State for Economic, Energy and Business Affairs, to exchange views on transatlantic economic priorities. Malte Lohan, CEO, opened the discussion by highlighting the importance of a strong and predictable business environment for US companies operating in the EU. The exchange focused on regulatory and investment conditions affecting international business, as well as the broader EU-US trade relationship and the value of continued economic cooperation. Participants also discussed cooperation on critical mineral supply chains, underlining the importance of coordinated transatlantic efforts to strengthen economic security, resilience and competitiveness. 

Energy
Transatlantic
Read more
Read more about AmCham EU meets with US Assistant Secretary of State for Economic, Energy and Business Affairs
News
4 Feb 2026

Full speed to net zero

The transport sector accounts for around a quarter of the EU’s total greenhouse gas emissions, with road transport responsible for the majority. As a company dependent on efficient logistics, Amazon is taking concrete steps to decarbonise its operations and support Europe’s climate ambitions. Across several Member States, the company is expanding its fleet of zero-exhaust emission vehicles, investing in electric trucks and delivering packages by lower-emission rail freight. These initiatives demonstrate how innovation in transport can combine operational efficiency with environmental responsibility. Read the full story on Invested in Europe. 

Environment
Read more
Read more about Full speed to net zero