French authorities are spearheading an effort to exclude the United Kingdom from the European Union’s emerging “Made in Europe” regulatory framework. The initiative is designed to bolster the EU’s competitive stance against Chinese manufacturers and protect its domestic supply chains.
The discussion surfaced during a meeting between Andy Burnham and Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission, which took place on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly earlier this week. French officials argue that the protections afforded by the new rules should be reserved exclusively for members of the internal market.
A French minister involved in shaping the policy strategy explained the rationale behind the exclusion: “If you’re not in the internal market, you don’t get the same protection.” According to reports, British firms could face significant disadvantages if they are left out of the scheme, potentially losing ground in the race to supply low-carbon technologies and electric vehicles across Europe.
Surprised they are moving so fast on this. I thought the Commission wanted broader cooperation on green tech.
Is this about fairness, or just political posturing against the UK? The lines between trade and diplomacy blur here.
Ouch. British EV makers will struggle to compete without this status. Hope London finds a workaround soon.
Makes sense. If you want the protections, you join the rules. Post-Brexit reality must be accepted.