What did Ursula von der Leyen criticize in Strasbourg?

She criticized the continued use of fax for cross-border approvals tied to EU waste permits, especially in Germany. She said paper-based steps slow shipments for months. Her call was to digitize and simplify permitting, which would lower costs and improve legal certainty for recyclers, shippers, and industrial exporters across the single market.

How would digitized EU waste permits help German firms?

A secure online system with standard forms and real-time status would cut admin time, reduce errors, and shorten queues. German firms would see fewer repeat document requests, better predictability for deliveries, and lower storage or penalty costs. This supports cash flow and enables tighter contract performance in recycling and export-heavy sectors.

When could changes from this initiative start to show?

The speech is a policy signal, not a final rule. Early signs may come from Commission guidance, pilot portals between member states, and national IT upgrades. Once pilots run, processing times and transparency should improve step by step. Investors should watch for public timelines and measurable service targets.

What risks remain for investors watching this theme?

Implementation depends on national authorities and budgets, so timelines can slip. Legacy systems, training needs, and data protection rules may slow rollout. Firms that do not adapt to new digital formats could face short-term costs. Monitoring processing times, dispute rates, and company disclosures can help gauge real progress.

Law and Government

EU Waste Permits: Von der Leyen slams Germany’s fax rule — February 12

ByHuzaifa Zahoor February 12, 2026February 12, 2026

Ursula von der Leyen used a Strasbourg speech on 12 February to call out Germany fax culture in cross-border approvals for EU waste permits. She said paper-based steps can delay shipments for months, hurting recyclers and exporters. For investors in Germany, faster, digital permits could reduce compliance time, lower costs, and improve cash flow. We outline what was said, why it matters for DE industry, and the near-term policy markers to watch across the EU market.