Brussels is sidestepping calls from the EU’s largest member states for new powers to block unwanted foreign takeovers, a demand aimed at curbing Chinese state-backed investment in some of Europe’s most prized technology companies.

Germany, France and Italy have called on the European Commission to look at whether the bloc should be allowed to intervene in state-backed takeovers of companies in strategic sectors. The measures, also supported by some MEPs, would be akin to powers in the US, where the Committee on Foreign Investment considers the national interest and security implications of overseas investment in US companies.

Berlin, supported by Paris and Rome, has grown concerned by the rise in Chinese investment in key sectors of the German economy. Worries peaked when Chinese appliance maker Midea offered €4.5bn for German robot-maker Kuka. Despite hand-wringing in Berlin and complaints from Chancellor Angela Merkel about hurdles faced by German companies wanting to invest in China, the deal closed in January.