The European Commission’s proposal for the Industrial Accelerator Act (IAA) aims to significantly strengthen industrial resilience in strategic sectors of the EU whilst continuing on the path towards decarbonisation. In order to reduce dependence on third countries and safeguard competitiveness, the share of the manufacturing sector in GDP is to be increased to 20 % by 2035.

AK welcomes the incorporation of the 'Made in EU' principle into public procurement and the funding of key technologies. However, the broad definition of 'Made in Europe' means that the desired effect will not be achieved. Furthermore, the requirements relating to 'Made in EU' and 'low-carbon' in public procurement and funding do not take employment aspects into account. Social conditionalities are urgently needed to create and strengthen high-quality jobs. Additionally, the list of selected technologies is missing key and future-oriented technologies, such as those in the rail industry, semiconductors, artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, robotics, digital infrastructure and the circular economy. While the tightening of regulations on foreign direct investment in key technologies is positive, the proposed threshold of €100 million is set too high.