Mission Impossible? The EU's Search for an Independent Tech Policy Amid US-China Decoupling

Abstract

Europe has become the battleground for the tech war between the United States and China. It started off with China’s ambitious Made in China 2025 programme in 2015, perceived by the US as a threat to its technological leadership and global military dominance. Over the last ten years, US governments have tried to restrict China’s further rise as an economic and technological power with a series of containment measures. During the first presi- dency of Donald Trump (2017-2021), China hawks became the drivers of US-China relations. They will have a strong- er position in Trump’s second term (2025-2029). They are now not only increasing tariffs and tech restrictions but aiming at complete decoupling. Without the participation of its allies in massive cutoffs from China, the US decou- pling strategy will not be successful. Among US allies, member countries of the European Union play a crucial role. The EU single market offers huge marketing potential for US products and services.