EU unveils ‘buy European’ public procurement rules to counter China

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Published: 2026-09-09T11:45:16.821Z • Permanent link

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has unveiled a new set of public procurement rules aimed at boosting domestic production and reducing dependence on non-EU suppliers, particularly China. The move is seen as a strategic response to the ongoing global supply chain disruptions and the growing concerns over data security and intellectual property theft. According to sources, the new rules will encourage European authorities to prioritize domestic goods and services when spending public money, but without binding quotas.

The initiative is being driven by a coalition of EU policymakers, industry leaders, and civil society organizations who argue that the current system is too reliant on Chinese imports and poses significant risks to Europe's economic and security interests. "We need to create a more level playing field for European businesses and ensure that our public money is being used to support local economic growth," said von der Leyen in a statement. The new rules will apply to all public procurement contracts above €100 million and will be enforced by a dedicated task force within the European Commission.

Key stakeholders in the EU's industrial base, including Airbus, Rolls-Royce, and Siemens, have welcomed the move as a significant step towards reducing their reliance on Chinese suppliers. "This is a major victory for European industry and a significant blow to China's efforts to exploit our supply chains," said a spokesperson for Airbus. The new rules are expected to have a significant impact on the global supply chain, particularly in the tech and aerospace sectors, where Chinese companies such as Huawei and BYD are major players.

The new public procurement rules are likely to have a significant impact on companies that rely on Chinese suppliers, including those in the tech, automotive, and aerospace sectors. Research communities and policymakers are already expressing concerns about the potential consequences for innovation and competitiveness. "The EU's move is a significant step towards diversifying its supply chains, but it also poses significant risks for companies that are not prepared to adapt," said a researcher at the Centre for European Studies.

The new rules are also expected to have a major impact on the global economy, particularly in the context of the ongoing trade tensions between the EU and China. "The EU's move is a clear signal to China that it will not be bullied into accepting unfair trade practices," said a trade expert at the European Institute of Technology. The new rules are likely to have a significant impact on markets such as the automotive and aerospace sectors, where Chinese companies are major players.

The new public procurement rules are part of a broader trend towards diversifying supply chains and reducing dependence on non-EU suppliers. This approach has been adopted by other countries, including the United States, Japan, and South Korea, which have all implemented similar measures in recent years. The EU's move is also seen as a response to the growing concerns over data security and intellectual property theft, particularly in the context of the ongoing tensions between the EU and China.