EU Unveils 'Made in Europe' Manufacturing Rules to Cut China Reliance

The European Union has long sought to reduce its dependence on cheap Chinese goods, and Wednesday's unveiling of the Industrial Accelerator Act marks its most direct step yet. The European Commission's proposal sets low-carbon and "Made in Europe" requirements for public procurement and subsidies across key sectors, including aluminum, cement, steel, wind turbines, and electric vehicles. The law aims to raise manufacturing's share of EU national output from 14% today to 20% by 2035. Critics warn the plan risks triggering trade retaliation, while supporters argue the U.S., China, Brazil, and India already have similar local content rules in place. The proposal must still be approved by the European Parliament and EU governments, meaning further changes are expected. France believes "Made in Europe" should cover the EU27 plus Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein, while some member states want broader inclusion, potentially extending to the United Kingdom.