Data Union Strategy: Setting the right framework to speed & scale up the use of industrial data in Europe

The upcoming Data Union Strategy must set the right framework conditions for speeding and scaling up the use of industrial data in Europe. As an immediate first step, a comprehensive, yet targeted regulatory simplification effort is needed.

Europe’s competitiveness, including the competitiveness of its technology industries, is at a critical juncture: with international competition, geopolitical tensions, and the rapid deployment of cutting-edge innovation such as AI sharply on the increase, EU policymakers need to create a better and more supportive regulatory framework to enable companies to stay ahead of the curve in terms of competitiveness, investment capabilities, and innovation in key technologies.

According to the EU Industrial Forum, concerns and challenges around data (e.g. overregulation, IP and cybersecurity) are among the main reasons for the current underusage of advanced manufacturing solutions in Europe. The upcoming Data Union Strategy is an opportunity for much-needed regulatory simplification and should set the right framework for speeding and scaling up the use of industrial data in Europe.

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