New analyses from European think tanks, including the EPICENTER network, expose how regulatory complexity, tax burdens and rigid labour rules are stifling small and medium enterprises across the EU. A study by Javaloyes Legal, featured in Europa Press, shows Spain lagging in entrepreneurial friendliness and competitiveness rankings. With SMEs making up over 99% of European companies, the reports warn that excessive administrative and compliance costs continue to hold back growth and job creation.