France is advocating for the European Union’s proposed “Made in Europe” rules to be focused primarily on companies within the EU, potentially excluding British firms from accessing public contracts and incentives in key industries. This initiative is part of the Industrial Accelerator Act, which aims to boost the demand for European-made, low-carbon products through public procurement and government support, targeting sectors such as steel, cement, aluminum, electric vehicles, and other net-zero technologies.
France’s stance is to define the rules narrowly, limiting them to the EU’s 27 member states. Meanwhile, the UK, no longer part of the EU single market, is seeking to be acknowledged as a trusted partner to allow British companies to remain competitive under this new framework. The outcome of these negotiations could significantly impact the ability of UK firms to engage in the EU market.
However, France’s position is not universally supported within the EU. Germany and several Nordic countries favor a more inclusive approach that may extend to trusted non-EU partners, reflecting differing perspectives on how open the rules should be. The final decision on the framework is still pending, as the Industrial Accelerator Act remains a proposal requiring further negotiation within the European Parliament and the EU Council before it can be adopted.
