On Wednesday, Brussels unveiled new 'Made in Europe' rules designed to bolster local manufacturers faced with competition from China. European Commissioner for Industry, Stéphane Séjourné, described this initiative as a significant shift in the EU's economic doctrine, which he noted was once thought unthinkable just months ago. The changes aim to adapt the way economic policies assist European industries, ensuring that they can thrive despite external pressures.

Originally expected to be announced in December, the policy's rollout was postponed multiple times until its eventual unveiling in March. Under these new regulations, a certain percentage of goods produced by companies, such as components for automobiles, must be manufactured within the European Union to qualify for access to public funding. This requirement is intended not only to support local manufacturing but also to ensure a degree of independence from non-European competitors in critical sectors.

The new rules are set to initially apply to a limited number of strategic sectors, including green technology, the automotive industry, the chemical industry, and the steel industry. France has been a staunch supporter of this proposal, aiming to protect European businesses and maintain competitive advantages in these essential domains. The implementation of such policies reflects a growing recognition among EU nations of the need to strengthen their economic resilience and support domestic industries against global competition.