France is advocating for the European Union’s “Made in Europe” rules to be predominantly applicable to companies within the EU, potentially restricting British firms’ access to public contracts and incentives in key industries. As the EU considers its Industrial Accelerator Act, designed to boost demand for European-made, low-carbon products, France is pushing for a definition that focuses on the EU’s 27 member states.
The proposed Industrial Accelerator Act aims to enhance public procurement and government support for sectors such as steel, cement, aluminium, electric vehicles, and other net-zero technologies. While France seeks a more exclusive interpretation, the UK, outside the EU’s single market, desires recognition as a trusted partner to allow British companies to compete under the new framework.
Conversely, Germany and several Nordic countries favor a broader approach that could include trusted non-EU partners. This ongoing debate highlights differing visions within the EU on how inclusive the rules should be, with negotiations on the final terms still in progress.
Before the Industrial Accelerator Act can be adopted, it must be negotiated by the European Parliament and the EU Council. The discussions will determine how restrictive the “Made in Europe” rules will ultimately be, affecting the potential for non-EU businesses, like those in the UK, to engage in strategic sectors within Europe.