Bayer CEO slams EU red tape as a threat to innovation and growth
Bayer CEO Bill Anderson has called for a significant reduction in bureaucracy across Europe, warning that excessive regulation is holding the continent back.
"If Europe wants to catch up technologically and compete on equal terms, we should start by eliminating laws that aren't absolutely essential," Anderson told Focus in an interview. "Being the world champion in regulation doesn't create value or prosperity."
He expressed concern that Europe's instinctive response to artificial intelligence was once again to "immediately regulate every conceivable scenario." He noted, "Laws already make it clear that you can't steal or commit fraud—we don't need more rules for that."
The head of the Leverkusen-based agribusiness and pharmaceutical giant argued that Europe remains too focused on regulation and safeguarding existing wealth, while other regions prioritize global leadership, economic dynamism, and expanding prosperity.
"Europe must redefine its role in this multipolar world and take decisive action—and it needs to do so quickly," he urged. "That requires clarity and a real commitment to change."
Since taking the helm at Bayer in 2023, Anderson has eliminated nearly two-thirds of management positions. "Many of the former managers now work exclusively on improving products and solutions for our customers, rather than approving expense reports or micromanaging their teams," he said.
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