France is advocating for the European Union’s proposed “Made in Europe” regulations to be primarily applicable to companies within the EU, potentially restricting British firms from accessing public contracts and incentives in strategic industries. This move is part of the broader context of the EU’s Industrial Accelerator Act, which aims to boost demand for European-made, low-carbon products through public procurement and government support schemes. The sectors impacted include steel, cement, aluminum, electric vehicles, and other net-zero technologies.
The French government supports a narrow interpretation of the rules, which would limit eligibility to the EU’s 27 member states. Conversely, the United Kingdom, having exited the EU single market, is pushing to be recognized as a trusted partner, which would allow British companies to remain competitive within the new framework.
Meanwhile, Germany and several Nordic countries have expressed support for a more inclusive approach that might incorporate trusted non-EU partners. This difference in opinion highlights ongoing negotiations over the final content of the rules, which have yet to be finalized.
The Industrial Accelerator Act is still in the proposal stage and requires negotiation between the European Parliament and the EU Council before it can be officially adopted. The discussions illustrate differing priorities within the EU regarding how open its strategic markets should be to non-member countries, particularly in light of recent geopolitical shifts.