On Friday 27 March, the Member States’ representatives ultimately failed to give the green light to the European Commission to negotiate a non-binding instrument with the United States that would allow the EU to join the Pax Silica initiative on semiconductors, according to sources (see EUROPE 13835/6).
While there was broad support for the Commission’s intention, one Member State – in this case France – would have voted against the green light. Therefore, the opening of negotiations for a non-binding instrument with Washington will have to wait, and will not be submitted for approval to the Agriculture Council on 30 March.
Pax Silica is a US-led strategic initiative launched in December 2025 to secure global supply chains for AI semiconductors, critical minerals and advanced technologies, explains a note from the Cyprus Presidency of the EU Council.
It aims to reduce reliance on single sources by building a secure silicon supply chain – spanning from mining and processing of raw materials to semiconductor design, AI manufacturing, and infrastructure such as data centres – and by fostering a reliable and resilient network of allies to ensure technological and economic security.
However, France is said to have expressed scepticism and fears that the initiative will primarily serve American economic interests, citing US-centred governance and a risk of technological over-dominance.
A relevant EU Council working group is set to revisit the subject in the near future. (Original version in French by Solenn Paulic)