Competitiveness and simplification: the challenges of the 2026 Tax Symposium for a less fragmented Europe

Brussels – Exploring the future of taxation in the European Union and how it can strengthen competitiveness and unlock economic potential is at the heart of the fourth edition of the 2026 Tax Symposium. The annual event for policy-makers and experts, organised jointly by the European Commission and the European Parliament, focuses this year on the theme “The future of taxation: inequality and growth in the global economy“, placing the concepts of prosperity and fairness at the centre of two days of debate in Brussels. The aim of the meeting is to outline a tax mix geared towards 2050, analysing how public revenue can adapt to structural changes such as demographic ageing, digitalisation, and the green transition, whilst assessing the effectiveness of current policies in ensuring the financial stability of Member States.

The proceedings were opened by the tax representatives of the two host institutions, starting with MEP Pasquale Tridico of the Five Star Movement, chair of the European Parliament’s Subcommittee on Taxation. Tridico emphasised that taxation is a key issue on the European agenda, stating that “it is essential that the tax system keeps pace with geopolitical developments.” According to the MEP, the path to strengthening European competitiveness necessarily involves “simplifying the tax system,” identifying the “fragmentation of the system in Europe” as one of the main obstacles, given the national nature of tax jurisdiction.

At the same time, the working sessions explore the link between taxation and investment flows, seeking models that reduce red tape and promote international cooperation, particularly regarding digital activities. Speaking on behalf of the European Commission, Benjamin Angel, Director for Direct Taxation, reiterated that “on the issue of taxation, it is important to bear long-term objectives in mind, so as to balance them with contemporary developments and challenges.” Angel highlighted how simplification “remains the persistent problem” of the tax system, not only at the European level but also at the national level, concluding that “it is essential to maintain international interest in the issue” because “it does not require much more than common sense.” The symposium thus serves as a forum for discussion to determine which reforms can support economic development without widening social divides in the coming decades.