More than 300 European industrial executives gathered at France’s Economy Ministry in Bercy, Paris, at the invitation of French Industry Minister Sébastien Martin, to call for an ambitious European industrial preference policy.
The meeting focused on the proposed Industrial Accelerator Act (IAA), which could introduce European-content requirements in strategic sectors and public procurement. Martin urged the EU to ensure that the legislation supports production and value chains located genuinely within Europe.
“The ‘Made in Europe’ label must mean Made in Europe—not Made in the World,” he said, while stressing that the objective was not to close the European market but to establish fairer competition and build partnerships with countries sharing comparable rules.
The initiative received the backing of more than 600 industrial leaders and companies from across Europe. Signatories included France Industrie, Dassault Aviation, ArcelorMittal, Acerinox, Ferroglobe, Orano, Enedis and the French automotive platform PFA.
Martin said France would oppose any dilution of the IAA’s industrial ambition. However, he cautioned that expanding its scope to too many sectors could weaken political support among EU member states.
The minister also reported movement in Germany’s position and highlighted Italy’s support for the French approach. France wants the European Parliament to adopt the legislation before the end of the year, followed by a trilogue agreement during the first half of 2027 and implementation no later than 2028.
“European manufacturers no longer want words; they demand action,” Martin said as he presented the coalition’s position to his EU counterparts at the Competitiveness Council.
