The internal market is one of the pillars of the European Union (EU). It is about bringing down barriers and harmonising existing rules to enable everyone in the EU to make the most of the opportunities offered to them by having direct access to 27 countries and 450 million people.
The cornerstones of the internal market are often said to be the four freedoms – the free movement of people, goods, services and capital. These freedoms promote an integrated, open and competitive area which fosters mobility, competitiveness and innovation. They touch upon every aspect of the economy and are of paramount importance for access to, or the exercise of, any economic activity. The smooth functioning of the internal market also has strong connections with other practice areas, such as the rules on regulated markets and industries, public procurement, unfair trade practices and intellectual property.
& DE BANDT assists domestic and international companies with EU internal market legislation and its implementation by the Member States. In addition, & DE BANDT can also provide guidance to public administrations and professional associations on any issue or problem they may encounter with respect to the internal market legislation. Our experience covers all aspects of the internal market, ranging from questions on the recognition of professional qualifications to the handling of legal proceedings relating to the compatibility of a concession or a zoning plan with the Services Directive.
