Britain and EU Seek Common Ground on Made in Europe Rules as Industry Faces Uncertainty

LONDON, October 27, 2026: Britain and the European Union are still trying to sort out worries about the new “Made in Europe” rules. Business minister Jonathan Reynolds said on Tuesday that these rules have left British manufacturers and investors uncertain.

The EU’s proposals lean heavily in favor of goods made within Europe, giving them an edge in public contracts, auctions, and subsidy programs. This hits sectors like electric vehicles, batteries, and clean tech the hardest. British carmakers feel especially exposed, since the plan’s whole point is to cut Europe’s reliance on cheap imports from places like China.

“We’re working through it,” Reynolds told Sky News. He explained that there’s a lot going on behind the scenes between the UK and the EU, as businesses wait for clear answers about what the rules will actually mean.

There’s talk of a possible workaround—France and Germany have floated the idea of granting Britain “trusted partner” status under the scheme. That might happen if London agrees to match the EU’s tariffs on China. For now, though, it’s just one of the options on the table—not a done deal.

Any final agreement needs a sign-off from EU governments and the European Parliament. Reynolds made it clear: talks haven’t wrapped up, and Britain’s concerns are still very much in play.