EU's 'Made in Europe' Initiative: An Industrial Revolution or Trade Barrier?

The European Commission is gearing up to unveil a transformative law next week that will enforce 'Made in Europe' criteria for products funded by public money, primarily targeting key strategic technologies.

The proposed 'Industrial Accelerator Act,' due for release on February 26, outlines mandatory EU-made content and low-carbon specifications for products procured by public funds or benefiting from manufacturing subsidies. The focus is on pivotal sectors such as batteries, solar and wind energy, hydrogen production, and nuclear power.

Each sector has tailored Europe-made benchmarks, as exemplified by clauses on solar panels and electric vehicles. The draft also stipulates conditions for significant foreign investments, stirring a robust debate across the EU. France champions the initiative, while nations like Sweden express concerns about cost implications.