12 Oct 2026
Commission adopts proposal to accelerate standards development
The European Commission has proposed reforms to Europe’s standardisation system aimed at accelerating standards development, widening participation and strengthening the EU’s international influence.
For research and innovation, the proposal addresses a key challenge: standards often lag behind technological advances, delaying the uptake of new solutions. Standards establish shared requirements for safety, interoperability and regulatory compliance, helping innovations move from research into commercial use.
The Commission estimates that the reforms could reduce average development times from six years to four. Clearer deadlines, greater use of external technical specifications under safeguards, and interim deliverables supporting conformity would help innovative products enter the Single Market while full standards are still being developed. Specialised organisations could also contribute where urgent technical expertise is needed.
Stronger participation requirements for academia, small and medium-sized enterprises, civil society and public authorities would bring broader expertise into standard-setting. For researchers and innovative businesses, this could create greater opportunities to shape requirements that influence technology adoption and market access. Dedicated repositories providing free access to standards developed under EU law would improve accessibility, helping research organisations and businesses understand relevant requirements.
The proposed Expert Centre on European Standardisation would strengthen strategic coordination and alignment with EU priorities. Closer international coordination could also help European technologies and approaches gain global acceptance.
The proposal will now be examined by the European Parliament and the Council before adoption and entry into force.
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