The Italian government has asked the European Commission for clarification over what it describes as inconsistencies and procedural concerns in Brussels’ handling of Italy’s “golden power” regulations, which allow Rome to veto or impose conditions on foreign investments deemed critical to national interests.
In a letter sent to EU Internal Market Commissioner Thierry Breton this week, Italian officials sought detailed explanations regarding the Commission’s observations on several recent golden power cases involving strategic sectors such as telecommunications, energy, and defense.
Sources in Rome told Il Sole 24 Ore that Italy’s request follows growing tensions between national authorities and the European Union over how much leeway member states should have in blocking or restricting takeovers by non-EU entities.
The Italian government insists its actions comply with both EU law and domestic security imperatives, stressing that the golden power mechanism first introduced in 2012 remains a vital safeguard for protecting sensitive industries from “potentially hostile” acquisitions.
“The government has the duty to protect Italy’s strategic assets, particularly in a global context marked by economic uncertainty and geopolitical competition,” said an official from the Prime Minister’s Office, who requested anonymity.
Brussels, however, has warned member states to ensure that investment screening measures do not distort the EU single market or discriminate against foreign investors without sufficient justification.
Analysts say the dispute highlights the delicate balance between national sovereignty and EU integration, particularly as more European countries tighten controls on strategic investments amid rising tensions with China and Russia.
The European Commission is expected to respond formally to Rome’s request in the coming weeks.