The Single European Act entered into force on 1 July 1987, setting a precise deadline of 31 December 1992 for the completion of the internal market. By the time the deadline (31 December 1992) had passed, over 90% of the legislative acts listed in the 1985 White Paper had been adopted, largely under the qualified majority rule. (Source: EP Fact sheets on the European Union)

On 1 January 1993 borders down in the Community, paving the way for a seamless open market within Europe. For businesses, this means the abolition of customs and tax checks at borders. For individuals, it means that they can buy what they need for their personal or family use in any one of the twelve Member States. (Source: EC Audiovisual Service)

(Image source: EC Audiovisual Service. © European Communities, 1986)

About this selection 

In collaboration with DG GROW's Inter-Institutional Relations and Outreach Unit, the EC Library has produced this Library Guide, which contains a selection of information resources on the European Single Market and its 30th anniversary.

The selection of books, articles and further resources is mainly from the EC Library’s e‑collection, obtained through its search tool Find-eR. 
Access to some sources may be restricted to Commission staff or to users at subscribing institutions.  

For a quick access to history, achievements, anniversaries, outlook or databases specifically relevant on the Single Market use the tabs above.

Complementary EC Library Guides

• GROW Library corner
• History of the European Union, information sources
• EU sources and information

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