The Commission has published a Recommendation urging EU Member States to review outbound investments by their companies in non-EU countries. It focuses on three high-risk technology areas: semiconductors, artificial intelligence, and quantum technologies. The Commission asks Member States to assess potential risks to economic security from these transactions.
“The EU is and will remain among the leaders of both providing and attracting world-class investment. However, the geopolitics of today means that we must have a deeper understanding of the potential risks it may entail. The assessment of EU outbound investment in key technology areas will allow us to have a clearer picture of potential threats we face,” Maroš Šefčovič, Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security; Interinstitutional Relations and Transparency, stated.
“With this knowledge, we will be better equipped to strengthen our economic security and guide future policy choices, while enhancing a robust and open investment environment in the EU. I strongly encourage all EU Member States to pursue these recommendations, which will help us all in the long run,” the Commissioner added.
The review will guide decisions on necessary actions at the EU or national levels to mitigate identified risks. The Commission aims to ensure that critical technologies and expertise do not fall into the wrong hands.
This Recommendation builds on a White Paper and highlights the need for cooperation with third countries. Member States are to collaborate with stakeholders to review investments made in these technology areas, covering both current and past transactions from 1 January 2021.
The review process will last 15 months. Member States must submit a progress report by 15 July 2025 and a comprehensive report by 30 June 2026, addressing the implementation of the Recommendation and identified risks.
