This paper examines import dependencies in environmental goods and a narrower set of low-carbon technologies (LCTs) in Europe-30, with a closer focus on Bulgaria, Estonia and Romania. Using product-level trade data and indicators of supply concentration and geopolitical distance, the analysis identifies several product groups where Europe relies heavily on a limited number of external suppliers, often located in rival geopolitical blocs.
The country case studies show that while many LCT imports in Central and Eastern Europe are embedded in European production networks, several strategically important technologies – including solar panels (photovoltaic components), batteries and specialised equipment – remain dependent on highly concentrated external supply.
The findings suggest that these import dependencies also signal sizeable unmet demand within the European market. The paper therefore recommends treating such dependencies as opportunities for industrial and export development by strengthening regional manufacturing capabilities, integrating CEE producers into European value chains, and supporting investment in selected LCT segments where domestic production could both reduce strategic vulnerabilities and expand export potential in rapidly growing global clean-technology markets.