On 18 June, the European Commission’s CPR Acquis Expert Group met to discuss priorities and developments concerning standards for construction products placed on the EU Single Market. FIEC, representing contractors, participates as a full member of the group, providing input from the user’s perspective.
The Construction Products Regulation (CPR) is the EU’s main legislative framework for integrating the EU Single Market for construction products. To meet regulatory needs, more than 300 product standards are currently being revised, while new product families have been introduced to support industrialised construction. Given the scale of the exercise, priorities have been established. In this context, FIEC has called on the European Commission to ensure that sufficient resources are allocated to the development of harmonised technical specifications for building modules and kits.
The possible harmonisation of EN 206, the Ready-Mixed Concrete (RMC) standard, was also discussed. Member States, manufacturers and contractors have expressed concerns that harmonisation could significantly disrupt the existing integrated system governing concrete production and use. While the European Commission intends to continue work in this area, stakeholders have suggested carrying out an independent, external impact assessment to evaluate the potential consequences of harmonising EN 206. Given the technical complexity of the issue and the potentially significant costs involved, such an assessment would provide an important evidence base for future decisions.
FIEC supports a well-functioning EU Single Market and recognises the value of further market integration where it can deliver tangible benefits, including greater cross-border use of construction products, increased competition, enhanced innovation and lower costs. At the same time, work on Ready-Mixed Concrete (RMC) should not divert resources from the development of harmonised technical specifications for building modules and kits. This area offers a clear opportunity to improve productivity, stimulate innovation and strengthen cross-border market integration. It is also closely linked to the supply-side measures envisaged under the European Affordable Housing Plan, notably the European Strategy for Housing Construction.
FIEC remains fully committed to continuing a constructive dialogue with the European Commission at all times, with the objective to ensure that any future approach is proportionate, practical, and genuinely beneficial for the competitiveness of the construction sector and the wider European economy.
Download the latest FIEC Statement on EN 206 / Ready-Mixed Concrete (RMC) here.
Information about the Construction Products Regulation (CPR) has been made available by the European Commission here.
