yhdenäismarkkinoilla

Yhdenäismarkkinat, known in English as the single market, refers to the European Union's internal market. It is an area where the four freedoms – the free movement of goods, services, capital, and people – are guaranteed. This system aims to foster economic integration and create a level playing field for businesses and consumers across member states.

The concept of the single market was largely established with the Maastricht Treaty in 1993, although its foundations were laid earlier with the European Economic Community. The goal was to eliminate barriers to trade and facilitate seamless economic activity. This involves harmonizing legislation and standards across different countries to ensure that products and services that meet the standards of one member state are accepted in all others.

The free movement of goods means that goods can circulate without customs duties or quantitative restrictions. The free movement of services allows businesses to offer their services in any member state. Capital mobility enables investments and financial transactions to flow freely across borders. Finally, the free movement of people permits citizens of EU countries to live, work, and study in any other member state.

The single market has led to increased competition, lower prices for consumers, and greater choice. It has also encouraged investment and economic growth. However, challenges remain, including the need for continued efforts to remove remaining barriers and to ensure consistent application of rules across all member states.