**Keve Initiates Survey on Excessive Implementation of EU Laws**
The Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Keve), in its role as the coordinator for the Enterprise Europe Network Cyprus, has launched a public consultation aimed at addressing the issue of excessive gold-plating of European Union legislation by member states. This initiative seeks to collect valuable feedback from businesses and stakeholders regarding the phenomenon where national authorities impose regulations that exceed the requirements established by the EU.
Gold-plating refers to the practice of introducing national rules or obligations that go beyond the stipulations of corresponding EU legislation when implementing laws at the national level. This can manifest in various forms, including stricter compliance standards, additional registration or reporting obligations, and extra licensing or administrative procedures. Other examples include national labelling requirements, restrictive interpretations of the law, and additional sanctions or inspections.
The European Commission has identified gold-plating as a significant barrier to the effective functioning of the internal market. In its communication titled “A Simpler, Clearer and Better Enforced EU Rulebook,” adopted in April 2026, the Commission committed to developing a toolkit of best practices to assist member states in recognizing and mitigating instances of excessive legislative implementation. This commitment aligns with the broader goals of simplifying the regulatory framework and reducing unnecessary administrative burdens, which are crucial for enhancing business competitiveness across the EU.
The Strategy for the Single Market, released on May 12, 2025, highlighted gold-plating as one of the most pressing challenges facing the internal market. The European Council has consistently urged member states to refrain from imposing disproportionate national requirements when transposing and applying EU regulations.
In light of these concerns, Keve's public consultation invites stakeholders, including small and medium-sized enterprises, to share their views, experiences, and suggestions regarding the impact of gold-plating on business operations. The consultation is open until September 15, 2026, and aims to gather insights on the additional costs and administrative burdens that may arise from the excessive application of EU law. Participants are encouraged to discuss how these practices affect business competitiveness and growth, as well as propose potential solutions to alleviate unnecessary regulatory pressures.
The consultation process is designed to be straightforward, with all responses remaining confidential. Businesses interested in contributing can complete an electronic questionnaire online. The information collected will be instrumental in discussions with member states and will aid in the development of the European Commission's toolkit aimed at preventing gold-plating.
Keve's initiative underscores the importance of collaboration between businesses and regulatory authorities to create a more efficient and competitive business environment within the EU. By addressing the challenges posed by excessive national regulations, the consultation aims to foster a regulatory landscape that supports growth and innovation while ensuring compliance with EU standards.