Reclaiming Strategic Autonomy
The move comes at a critical time. “Our dependence on fossil fuels is a millstone around the neck of European industry,” says Matthieu, citing the ongoing American conflict in Iran and surging gas prices as proof of Europe’s vulnerability.
According to Matthieu, the goal is simple: match the ambition of China’s “Made in China” and America’s “Buy American” policies. “Only by modernizing, greening, and protecting our industry will it have a chance to survive,” she warns.
European Taxes for European Jobs
A cornerstone of the new proposal is a shift in public procurement. The Greens demand that taxpayer money be used to support local jobs rather than subsidizing Chinese state-owned companies.
Under the proposed quotas for public projects:
- Steel & Aluminum: At least 25% must be low-carbon and produced in Europe.
- Electric Vehicles: 70% of commercial fleets must be European-made, including battery components (currently 80% controlled by China).
- Construction: Infrastructure like bridges and schools must prioritize European green concrete and heat pumps.
Addressing the “Chicken-and-Egg” Investment Problem
Critics often point to the cost of green materials, but research by Transport & Environmentshows that using 40% green steel in a car adds only €57 to the price.
“Many companies are postponing investments because they aren’t sure the demand exists,” Matthieu explains. “By creating a guaranteed market in Europe, we scale up production and drive costs down. If we don’t act, our industry will become obsolete.” The Act aims to boost the industrial share of Europe’s GDP from its current 14.3% back to 20% by 2035.
Cutting Red Tape Without Sacrificing Nature
While the Act seeks to speed up permits for greening projects, Matthieu notes that the real bottlenecks are often at the Member State level. She points to a lack of staffing and digitalization in national administrations. “We must move faster, but without sacrificing our environmental standards,” she insists, calling on countries like Germany to stop lobbying for market exceptions.
A Shield Against Foreign Takeovers
Finally, the law introduces stricter conditions for foreign investments in strategic sectors like batteries and EVs. Matthieu calls for a “reciprocity” approach toward China.
“For decades, China forced Western companies into technology-sharing and joint ventures. It is high time we impose similar conditions in Europe,” she says. This strategy is designed to prevent foreign monopolies and ensure that investments contribute directly to European prosperity and economic security.
