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On 12 February 2026, the European Parliament adopted its resolution on addressing subcontracting chains and the role of intermediaries in order to protect workers’ rights. The resolution acknowledges that subcontracting is not inherently problematic and plays an essential role in many sectors such as in transport and logistic as it enables specialisation, regional coverage, flexibility and SME participation in complex supply chains. The resolution also underlines that labour exploitation, undeclared work and criminal infiltration must be addressed decisively, particularly in sectors considered to be at higher risk amongst which logistics.

The Parliament did not endorse proposals to introduce a mandatory two-tier subcontracting limit at EU level. The adopted resolution instead places its emphasis on transparency, accountability and enforcement rather than structural numerical restrictions. The Parliament calls on the European Commission to strengthen transparency throughout subcontracting chains and to examine liability mechanisms, including joint and several liability.

CLECAT has underlined that the logistics sector does not suffer from a lack of regulation. As reflected in our recent contributions on the Quality Jobs Act and the Fair Labour Mobility Package, the EU already has a comprehensive framework governing posting of workers, social security coordination, road transport market access, cabotage rules, occupational safety and anti-fraud measures. The Mobility Package has significantly strengthened these rules and is still being implemented across Member States.

For CLECAT, any policy intervention must therefore carefully distinguish between legitimate business organisation and abusive practices. the priority should therefore remain effective enforcement, legal clarity and improved cross-border cooperation between authorities. Digital tools, better information exchange and a strengthened coordinating role for the European Labour Authority can enhance compliance without imposing additional structural burdens on legitimate operators. Clear and workable rules are easier for companies to apply and for authorities to enforce.  Promoting quality jobs in logistics requires practical solutions that improve daily working conditions. Investment in safe and secure truck parking, adequate facilities and targeted well-being initiatives (such as the Wellbeing Pledge supported by CLECAT) directly contributes to driver safety and the attractiveness of the profession.