EU Business Leaders Warn Skills Gap Threatens Competitiveness Ahead of 2030 Targets

BusinessEurope, the Brussels-based business lobby, warned that Europe cannot improve its competitiveness without addressing a deepening skills shortage, according to a Deloitte Access to Skills study. Director General Markus J. Beyrer said firms across sectors are confronting labour gaps and a growing mismatch between existing skills and evolving job demands, spurred by demographic change and the green and digital transitions.

Although 82% of surveyed companies use continuous staff training, many, particularly SMEs, cite time, organisational capacity and cost as barriers. Beyrer called for curriculum updates, flexible work-based and modular learning, digital and AI-enabled tools, and stronger recognition of qualifications to enhance labour mobility. The study, built on Cedefop data and up to 100 interviews, also examined the Net Zero Industry Act and the 60% adult-training target by 2030.

Meanwhile, the 2026 European Employment and Social Outlook report highlighted improvements in pay, job security and working time, but warned of slowing employment growth, weak productivity and pressure from high energy prices. Executive Vice-President Roxana Mînzatu stressed the need for more high-quality jobs and introduced the forthcoming Quality Jobs Act to ensure work that is fair, safe and rewarding.