EU’s ‘Made in Europe’ Plan Faces Intense Lobbying and Potential Delays

Brussels, February 20, 2026 – The European Commission’s ambitious plan to prioritize European-made products in public procurement, dubbed the “Made in Europe” strategy, is encountering significant resistance and is likely facing further delays. The proposal, designed to bolster European competitiveness against China and the United States, has triggered a flurry of lobbying efforts from both within and outside the European Union.

The Core of the Proposal

The “Made in Europe” initiative aims to favor products manufactured within the EU in government contracts and support programs. This move is intended to strengthen the bloc’s industrial base and reduce reliance on foreign suppliers. However, the plan has drawn criticism for potentially being protectionist and for the complexities of defining what constitutes a “Made in Europe” product.

Industrial Accelerator Act (IAA) and Proposed Thresholds

The Industrial Accelerator Act (IAA) is central to defining the criteria for the “Made in Europe” designation. A leaked draft of the IAA, reported by Euronews, outlines specific origin thresholds for key sectors. These include:

• Electric Vehicles (EVs): 70% EU-origin content
• Aluminium: 25% EU-origin content
• Plastics (for windows and doors): 30% EU-origin content

The IAA was initially delayed in November 2025 and now appears likely to face another postponement despite being scheduled for presentation on February 26th.

Pushback from Member States

Several EU member states are pushing for a more flexible definition of “Made in Europe” to allow access for partner countries. Nordic and Baltic states have voiced concerns that strict requirements could deter investment and limit access to advanced technologies from non-EU nations. Germany reportedly favors a European preference extended to “like-minded partners” with reciprocal procurement commitments and those contributing to the EU’s economic security.

UK Concerns and Trade Interdependence

The United Kingdom has similarly expressed reservations, emphasizing the strong economic ties between the EU and the UK. British officials highlight that the EU remains the largest export market for British cars, and that significant European manufacturing occurs within the UK. UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves recently noted that almost half of the UK’s trade is with the EU, exceeding its trade with the rest of the world combined. Euronews

Internal Commission Divisions

The European Commission itself is not unified on the issue. The Trade Directorate-General, traditionally a proponent of open markets, is reportedly pushing back against the proposal. EU industry chief Stéphane Séjourné acknowledged that the European preference represents a “quite a change of Europe’s economic doctrine” and that reaching a “common and smart version” will require significant effort. Euronews

France’s Position

France remains a strong advocate for the “Made in Europe” strategy, believing it has gained sufficient support in Brussels to become a reality. The debate has now shifted towards the specifics of its implementation.

Separate Controversy: Commissioner Šuica’s US Trip

Adding to the tensions, European Commissioner Dubravka Šuica’s attendance at the first formal meeting of US President Donald Trump’s “Board of Peace” has sparked outrage among several EU member states. France, Spain, Belgium, Ireland, Slovenia, Portugal, Germany, Sweden, and Lithuania all voiced objections, arguing that the Commission lacks the mandate to engage in foreign policy without the approval of member states. Euronews France specifically stated that Šuica’s attendance breached EU treaties. Euronews

The Commission is aiming to present a proposal before the EU summit in March, which will focus on competitiveness. However, the ongoing lobbying and internal divisions suggest that achieving a consensus will be a significant challenge.