Parliament set its negotiating position on two draft bills: one on the “Chips Act”, which aims to bolster technological capacity and innovation in EU Chips, and a second one on the Chips Joint Undertaking to increase investments for developing this type of European presence.

On the Chips Act, MEPs endorsed the text adopted by the Industry Committee, which focusses on next-generation semiconductors and quantum chips and on creating a network of centres to address the skills shortage and attract new talent on research, design and production. They also want to support projects aiming to boost the EU’s security of supply by attracting investment and building up production capacity.

Measures to respond to future shortages

A crisis response mechanism would be set up, with the Commission assessing the risks to the EU supply of semiconductors and early warning indicators in member states that could trigger an EU-wide alert. This would allow the Commission to implement emergency measures such as prioritising the supply for products particularly affected, or carry out common purchasing for member states.

“Chips for Europe” initiative

In a separate vote, MEPs adopted with 594 votes in favour, 15 against and 27 abstentions, the Chips Joint Undertaking proposal, implementing the measures foreseen under a “Chips for Europe” initiative. The scheme aims to support large-scale capacity building through investment into EU-wide and openly accessible research, development and…