The Group of the Socialists and Democrats in the European Parliament welcomes the European Chip Act, presented today by the European Commission. The S&D Group considers this legislative proposal for regulation as an important step towards greater European technological autonomy. The Socialists and Democrats agree with the President of the Commission, Ursula von der Leyen that it is crucial for the European Union to compete in open and connected global markets. However, the S&D find it particularly important to not only decrease the dependence for semiconductors, but also to increase investments, at European and national level, to reach small and medium enterprises. 

Dan Nica MEP, S&D spokesperson in the European Parliament’s committee on industry, research and energy, said:

“In a world with a growing demand for chips, it is of crucial importance for us to produce them by ourselves. Indeed, perhaps in strategic partnerships with international partners like the US or Japan, as the President of the Commission von der Leyen said today, but still maintaining European technological autonomy. Growing tension around the globe has already resulted in the shortage of these chips, known also as semiconductors. For example, if you buy a new car today in Europe, it is very likely that the manufacturer will tell you that it can only be delivered at the end of this year. To a great extent, this is due to the problems with the manufacturing of these semiconductors.

“Our group has no illusions that 100% self-dependence is possible. This is why we welcome what President von der Leyen said today - the interdependence with our partners should be balanced.  We, the Socialists and Democrats, will work on the text in the European Parliament and we expect a constructive dialogue with the Member States in the Council of the European Union in close cooperation with the European Commission. We will make sure there is enough support and increased private and public investments for our innovators, researchers and businesses, putting small and medium enterprises at the forefront of this debate within the EU. High tech must not be a privilege to the big companies - it must be considered as a tool for more jobs and for benefitting everyone in Europe.”