The Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Keve) has launched a public consultation to address the issue of excessive gold-plating of European Union legislation by member states.
- The Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Keve) has launched a public consultation to address the issue of excessive gold-plating of European Union legislation by member states.
This initiative is part of Keve’s role as the coordinator for Enterprise Europe Network Cyprus and aims to collect feedback from businesses and stakeholders on how national authorities impose rules that surpass the requirements established by EU directives.
Understanding Gold-Plating
Gold-plating occurs when national governments introduce additional rules or obligations that exceed those set forth by EU legislation. This can manifest in various ways, including stricter compliance standards, extra registration or reporting obligations, and heightened administrative procedures.
The European Commission has identified gold-plating as a significant barrier to the effective functioning of the internal market. In a communication titled ‘A Simpler, Clearer and Better Enforced EU Rulebook’, adopted in April 2026, the Commission committed to creating a toolkit of best practices to help member states avoid unnecessary legislative excess.
Seeking Stakeholder Input
Keve is encouraging businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises, to share their experiences related to gold-plating by September 15, 2026. Participants can provide insights into the administrative burdens and additional costs they face due to the excessive implementation of EU legislation.
The consultation invites submissions of studies, analyses, position papers, or any relevant material that can contribute to understanding the impact of gold-plating on business competitiveness and growth.
Future Implications for EU Legislation
The European Council has consistently urged member states to refrain from imposing disproportionate national requirements during the transposition and application of EU rules. The feedback collected from this consultation will play a crucial role in discussions with member states and will support the development of the forthcoming European Commission toolkit aimed at preventing gold-plating.
As the European Commission continues its efforts to simplify the regulatory framework and reduce unnecessary administrative burdens, the outcome of this survey will be instrumental in shaping future policies that foster a more competitive business environment across the EU.
