Leaked Draft Reportedly Shows Quantum Among Technologies Removed From EU Industrial Policy Plan
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Insider BriefEurope’s proposed industrial policy aimed at reducing dependence on China has dropped quantum computing, artificial intelligence and semiconductors from its list of strategic technologies eligible for preferential support, according to the South China Morning Post (SCMP).The change marks a significant shift in Brussels’ industrial strategy, narrowing the scope of a plan that originally sought to ensure advanced technologies — including quantum systems — would be developed and produced within Europe to qualify for public funding and procurement.The Industrial Accelerator Act, expected to be formally presented by the European Commission, is designed to strengthen European manufacturing and reduce reliance on foreign suppliers in strategic sectors. Earlier drafts included several emerging technologies widely viewed as critical to economic competitiveness and national security, including quantum computing, advanced sensing technologies and semiconductor manufacturing.SCMP reports that, based on a leaked copy of the latest draft, those sectors were removed from the list of technologies that must be “made in Europe” to access state support programs.Leaving out quantum computing from the draft may point to the difficulty the EU faces in crafting an industrial policy that balances technological ambitions with political consensus among its 27 member states.Earlier proposals would have directed billions of euros in government funding toward European-based production of strategic technologies. Companies seeking public contracts or subsidies would have been required to meet local content requirements, ensuring that a large share of the technology was manufactured within the bloc.Quantum computing had been included because of its potential to transform industries ranging from cybersecurity to pharmaceuticals. The technology also carries vast potentials for national security and defense.Removing quantum technologies from the act means companies developing quantum hardware or software will no longer automatically benefit from the “made in Europe” provisions originally envisioned in the policy.Other advanced sectors removed from the draft include biotechnology, robotics, advanced sensing technologies, space systems, propulsion technologies and advanced materials.Instead of emerging technologies, SCMP reports the revised draft focuses more heavily on traditional industrial sectors and energy-related technologies tied to the EU’s climate goals.Industries such as steel, cement, aluminum, chemicals, plastics and refined petroleum products are included in the latest version. The legislation also targets clean energy technologies that are central to Europe’s transition to net-zero emissions.These include electric vehicles, solar photovoltaic panels, wind power systems, battery storage technologies, hydrogen electrolysers and nuclear fission.The draft includes specific local content requirements. For example, electric vehicles must contain at least 70 percent European-made components to qualify for public procurement contracts or government support programs.The rule excludes the value of the battery pack, which can account for roughly 40 percent of an electric vehicle’s cost. However, several key battery components—including the cells themselves—must still be manufactured in Europe.SCMP also reports the policy proposes limits on foreign ownership in joint ventures operating in strategic sectors. Foreign entities would be restricted to holding no more than 49 percent of such ventures, a measure aimed at encouraging technology transfer to European partners.The shifting scope of the legislation may be revealing a deep divide within the EU over how aggressively the bloc should pursue industrial policy, according to SCMP.Some governments, led by France, have argued that Europe must adopt stronger protectionist measures to compete with state-backed industries in China and the United States. Advocates say policies favoring domestic production could help rebuild strategic industries and reduce supply chain vulnerabilities.Other countries, including Germany, Sweden, the Netherlands and Finland, have pushed for a more moderate approach. These governments remain wary of policies that could undermine Europe’s traditional commitment to open markets and free trade.The debate has delayed the legislation multiple times, with the draft reportedly revised repeatedly before reaching its current form.Even as the EU struggles to finalize its industrial strategy, trade data suggest Europe’s dependence on foreign technology is continuing to grow.The bloc relies heavily on the United States for advanced semiconductor technologies and on China for many clean-energy components and manufacturing inputs.Meanwhile, China continues to expand state support for emerging technologies, including quantum computing and advanced manufacturing, through its long-term economic planning.The European Commission’s proposal will move toward negotiations among EU member states and the European Parliament. Any final legislation is unlikely to take effect soon, and implementation periods could stretch over several years.Share this article:Keep track of everything going on in the Quantum Technology Market.In one place.