"The ASN's inspections of the supply chain for materials intended for nuclear facilities still highlight recurring weaknesses in industrial rigour," said Bernard Doroszczuk.
The issues are mainly linked to a "lack of knowledge" on the side of suppliers about the specific safety requirements, the "lack of command" over some technical protocols and a "lack of rigour and performance" in monitoring the supply chain, he added.
Speaking at the watchdog's New Year event, France's top nuclear inspector confirmed the latest timing for EDF's Flamanville EPR plant - the first of its kind in France, plagued by years of delays and billions of cost overruns - will be kept.
EDF last month said the nuclear reactor is scheduled to be loaded with fuel in March with connection to the grid expected in mid-2024.
