France, Germany and Spain are at odds over the definition of “Made in Europe” as the EU prepares to introduce new rules aimed at bolstering European industries amid rising competition from China. The proposed Industrial Accelerator Act by the European Commission seeks to prioritise European-made products, such as cars and green technologies, in public procurement.
The three nations disagree on the geographic scope of this initiative. France advocates a strict interpretation limited to EU-made products, while Germany supports a broader approach that includes products made “with” Europe. Berlin’s position paper suggests extending origin rules to include trade partners willing to provide European companies with similar access, potentially involving nations like Norway and Switzerland, as well as Canada, which may be granted “associate” EU member status.
Spain has positioned itself as a mediator, proposing a compromise that still reinforces the EU as the primary area for production. Spain’s Industry Minister, Jordi Hereu i Boher, referenced the need for “open strategic autonomy” alongside cooperation with non-EU countries.
Spain’s proposal outlines three tiers for European preference: the core EU member states, European Economic Area countries and trusted partners offering mutual public procurement access, and countries with free trade agreements or customs unions with the EU.
Italy is yet to adopt a firm stance, with its Minister for Enterprises, Adolfo Urso, favouring a European preference that includes strategic partners. Meanwhile, Ireland, currently holding the EU presidency, aims to facilitate a consensus among the 27 member states by December.
