The European Union has proposed new legislation to prioritize European companies in public procurement for strategic services, aiming to reduce reliance on foreign suppliers. The measure targets sectors where Chinese firms currently hold a significant share, particularly in infrastructure and transport. The proposal comes amid growing concerns over supply chain dependencies and national security risks associated with foreign technology.
Under the proposed rules, public authorities would be required to give preference to European suppliers when awarding contracts for services deemed critical to the bloc’s strategic interests. This includes projects related to energy, transport, and digital infrastructure. The legislation would apply to contracts valued above a certain threshold, with the goal of increasing the share of European firms in public spending.
The move is seen as part of a broader effort to strengthen economic resilience and reduce vulnerabilities linked to global supply chains. While the proposal does not explicitly name Chinese companies, it is widely understood to be a response to the increasing influence of foreign firms in key sectors. The European Commission is expected to finalize the rules in the coming months, with implementation likely to follow in 2025.
