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Spain seeks to close the existing gap between France and Germany around the new criteria of “Made in the EU“, designed to stop Europe’s industrial decline.
The Industrial Acceleration Law, IAApresented earlier this year by the French European Commissioner Stephane Séjourneseeks to prioritize European companies in allocating public funds to key manufacturing sectors. However, Paris and Berlin disagree on the scope of European subsidies for key products from non-EU countries. EU. Paris prefers a stricter definition that focuses on the bloc’s 27 member states, while Berlin fears this approach will harm free trade.
Although directed at China, the IAA It has drawn the ire of key trading partners such as the United Kingdom and Japan, alarmed by what they see as Europe’s protectionist inclination.
In an attempt to reach an agreement between the countries of the EUOn Thursday in Brussels, Spain presented a proposal to improve the criteria used to define European preference.
Its plan takes into account the geographical scope, as well as the products and technologies contemplated in the regulations.
The proposal, to which he had access Bloombergestablishes three “levels” for collaborations.
The first category would include only members of the EUthe second would incorporate the countries of the European Economic Area and potential trusted partners, and the third would encompass nations that have a free trade agreement or customs union with the EUor that are part of a public procurement agreement.
The list of products presented by Spain includes steel, concrete, aluminum, hybrid and electric vehicles, net zero emissions technologies, as well as semiconductors, digital technologies and artificial intelligence activities.
The countries of the EU They are under pressure to reach a common position on the proposal, and the European Parliament is also planning to speak out on the matter. However, countries are divided over how far Europe should go to protect its manufacturing base.
In a document distributed ahead of today’s meeting, Germany stressed the need for the EU “remain a reliable partner for your free partners trade and comply with its legal obligation”, arguing that the provisions should be extended to countries that have a free trade agreement, LACwith the EU.
This would allow more bidders and products to compete, thus encouraging greater competition, according to the document, while opening up export markets for the EU. Germany also proposed a “Made with EU» instead of «Made in the EU», a position that was supported by several ministers present at today’s meeting.
“We want to work with loyal partners: the United Kingdom, Switzerland, Canada,” declared the deputy prime minister Belgian, David Clarinval. “We want an open list, with all countries that respect the rules.”
