EU industry leaders mostly support the "Made in Europe" strategy to protect competitiveness

Stephane Sejournay, executive vice president of the European Commission for Prosperity and Industrial Strategy, said Europe must adopt a "Made in Europe" strategy to protect its industrial base and reduce over-reliance on external competitors, according to Reuters.

In an article published in European newspapers and signed by more than 1,100 CEOs and business leaders, Sejourné warned that without a strong and pragmatic industrial policy, Europe risks becoming a "playground for its competitors," especially in the face of growing pressure from cheap imports from China.

Industrial Acceleration Law and Internal Divisions

The intervention comes ahead of the European Commission's planned proposal for an Industrial Acceleration Law later this month. This initiative is expected to promote locally produced products in strategic sectors as a means of strengthening European industry.

However, the proposal highlights the differences within the EU. While countries such as France support European preference rules, others, including Sweden and the Czech Republic, warn that strict "buy on the spot" requirements could deter investment, raise public procurement costs, and ultimately weaken Europe's global competitiveness.

Steel industry support and strategic challenges

The opinion was endorsed by leaders from a wide range of sectors, including steel producers such as