The EU has announced a bill to favor European products in public procurement for critical infrastructure, including transport and energy. The aim is to reduce dependence on Chinese products and strengthen economic security, with environmental and labor conditions also included among the selection criteria.
The European Commission of the European Union (EU) announced on the 9th a bill to favor European products in public procurement for critical infrastructure, including transport and energy systems. The aim is to reduce dependence on Chinese products and other goods and strengthen economic security.
The bill would broadly define the scope of public procurement to include transport as well as schools and healthcare services, and is intended to promote the use of public funds to support industries within the bloc in sectors equivalent to approximately 15% of GDP. The final decision is expected to be made following consultations with EU member states and the European Parliament.
It has been reported that some within the Japanese government view the measure as protectionist, and the government has indicated that it will closely monitor its impact on Japanese companies. The bill also sets out policies to prevent leaks of confidential information and address cyberattacks.
As part of the proposed framework, the bill calls for environmental factors and labor conditions, not only price, to be included in product selection. It emphasizes the introduction of trusted products and the strengthening of supply chains.