New tools to reinforce the EU’s economic security

The Commission has put forward several proposals to strengthen the EU’s economic security. Like many parts of the world, Europe is living through growing geopolitical tensions and profound technological shifts. This presents a number of challenges. We also want to ensure that the EU remains one of the most open and attractive destinations for business and investment. That is why the Commission has outlined a number of new measures in the areas of trade and research.

The steps related to trade include:

• improving the screening of foreign investments into the EU to prevent investments that may pose a risk to the EU’s security. For example, checking that all Member States have a screening mechanism in place, with more harmonised national rules, and extending the scope of what investments should be screened.
• having a more coordinated approach to the EU’s exports of dual-use goods – that is to say goods that can be used for both civil and military purposes (such as advanced electronics) – to ensure they do not fall into the wrong hands
• understanding the potential risks associated with certain EU investments abroad. For example, how advanced technologies can be used to enhance military capacities of actors who may use these against the EU.

When it comes to research, the Commission is looking into ways to support research and development in technologies which can be used for different purposes, and at how to enhance research security across the EU.

This package follows up on the European Economic Security Strategy from June 2023, which laid the basis for the EU to develop a comprehensive approach to protect the Union’s economic security.

For more information

EU investment policy

Exporting dual-use items out of the EU

Strategic Autonomy and European Economic and Research Security

An economy that works for people

Press release: Commission proposes new initiatives to strengthen economic security

Press release on the European Economic Security Strategy