According to European Union Digital Economy Commissioner Guenther Oettinger, it would be preferable if Kuka AG (www.kuka.com) remained in European hands. The German manufacturer of industrial robots became a take-over target for China’s Midea Group last month. Mr Oettinger said that it is important to keep key knowledge “within the region”.

He added: “Kuka is of significant importance for the digital future of European industry. Since there was no cry for help to China, the thought should be allowed that a European approach — an alternative offer from one of its large shareholders or other companies stepping in — could be a better solution.”

On 18 May, Midea, China’s largest manufacturer of home appliances, made an offer of 115 euros per Kuka share, valuing the supplier of automation equipment to groups such as Airbus, Volkswagen AG and Fiat Chrysler at 4.6 billion euros. Midea already owns 13.5% indirectly, and said that it is looking for a stake of at least 30% but does not plan a full take-over. Kuka’s largest shareholders are Friedhelm Loh Group and Voith GmbH, which own almost a third of the company between them.