The European Commission has sent Belgium formal warnings for failing to implement fully or correctly several key EU directives, in particular those relating to the Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS).
The Commission communicated two reasoned opinions on Wednesday, the last step before a possible referral to the European Court of Justice. The first concerns the revised Maritime Transport Directive, which aims to strengthen existing rules, reduce the overall volume of emission allowances and increase funding for decarbonisation. The second concerns updated rules for the aviation sector as part of its integration into the international system for offsetting and reducing emissions.
Court of Justice
Belgium, like all EU member states, had to transpose the new rules into national law by 31 December 2023. If it fails to do so within two months, the Commission may refer it to the European Court of Justice.
The Commission has also launched infringement proceedings against Belgium and several other countries for failing to correctly implement the EU Firearms Directive. This directive sets minimum standards for the acquisition, possession and trade of civilian firearms – such as those used for hunting or sport shooting – and aims to improve safety and combat illegal trafficking. Letters of formal notice have been sent to Belgium, Estonia, Slovakia, Sweden and the Netherlands.
Price reductions
Finally, Belgium has been sent a separate warning for failing to implement EU rules on price reductions correctly. These rules are designed to protect consumers and harmonise national laws within the single market. According to the Commission, the Belgian law goes beyond the scope of the directive by applying it not only to goods, as required, but also to services, in breach of the Unfair Commercial Practices Directive.
