Ahh, but they’ve already mandated side loading to piss off apple! Bit of an own-goal there.

> Apps installed through alternative app distribution undergo a Notarization process to ensure every app meets baseline platform integrity standards...

> Notarization for iOS and iPadOS apps is a baseline review that applies to all apps, regardless of their distribution channel, focused on platform policies for security and privacy and to maintain device integrity.

https://support.apple.com/en-us/118110

Why do you think the EU hasn’t opposed Apple’s plan to notarize every app, even sideloaded ones? They like the censorship potential.