The UK government says it is making progress in talks with the European Union over proposed “Made in Europe” rules, which could affect British manufacturers competing for contracts and support in the European market.

Business Minister Jonathan Reynolds said on 27 October 2026 that discussions were under way to address British concerns about the proposals. The rules would favour European-made products in areas including public procurement, auctions and subsidy schemes for electric vehicles, batteries and other clean technologies.

The plans have raised concerns among UK businesses, particularly manufacturers in the automotive and clean-technology sectors. Companies fear that British-made products could face a disadvantage if the UK is excluded from schemes designed to strengthen European industrial production.

The initiative forms part of wider EU efforts to reduce reliance on imported goods, especially from China, and reinforce European manufacturing capacity.

The outcome of the negotiations could have significant implications for UK-EU trade relations, industrial investment and British companies seeking access to European clean-technology markets.

However, no final agreement has been announced. Any compromise would depend on further negotiations and approval through the relevant EU decision-making processes.

The discussions highlight the continuing challenge of balancing Britain's post-Brexit trading relationship with the EU against efforts to protect domestic industry and attract investment.