European Commission proposes ‘Buy EU’ plan to compete against China

The Guardian - World NewsEN 4 min read 100% complete by Jennifer Rankin in BrusselsMarch 4, 2026 at 06:18 PM

AI Summary

medium article 4 min

The European Commission has proposed the Industrial Accelerator Act, a "Buy EU" plan designed to bolster domestic low-carbon industries and compete with China. The draft regulation prioritizes EU-made and low-carbon content in public spending, marking a shift from the EU's traditionally open market approach. The plan aims to reverse industrial decline and increase manufacturing to 20% of Europe's GDP by 2035. While inspired by French ideas, the proposal leaves open the possibility of including countries with close economic ties, like the UK and Japan, based on reciprocal market access. The initiative responds to concerns about reliance on Chinese imports, particularly in sectors like batteries and solar technology, and aims to ensure strategic autonomy and climate transition.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

India 30% France 40% United States 40% Japan 40% United Kingdom ×250% Stéphane Séjourné ×370% China ×580% European Union ×485% European Commission ×490%

Keywords

buy eu 90% industrial accelerator act 80% domestic industries 70% china competition 70% strategic autonomy 60% low-carbon 60% eu manufacturing 50% reciprocal market access 50% economic policy 40%