As US-EU trade tensions rise, digital policy is still missing from the EU’s trade negotiation agenda. With global demand for cutting-edge digital services growing, real potential exists—if experts, businesses, and policymakers align on rules, standards, and shared priorities.
Russia’s Rusklimat has acquired the Ericsson trademark under a law allowing unused trademarks to be re-registered after three years. This sets a dangerous precedent for foreign companies that left Russia after its 2022 invasion of Ukraine, raising concerns about intellectual property protection.
Radio signals hijacked, pilots losing navigation, ships drifting off course - for many European nations, these scenarios are no longer far-fetched but pressing realities. Last year, Lithuania noticed a staggering 60% jump in GPS interference, which set off alarm bells across the continent.
As European data-based companies eagerly await a consultation on the EU Data Union Strategy (which is promised to be launched in 2025 Q1), it is crucial to highlight the structural issues for data sharing within Europe.
Yesterday, EU Commissioner Michael McGrath announced that the upcoming Omnibus Simplification Initiative will also include the GDPR. While the core issues with the GDPR are unlikely to be addressed, the EU should consider expanding the discussion to better support European innovators.
The European Commission aims to lower its ESG reporting requirements, recognizing the compliance costs it may imposed on firms and consumers.
The tech to close Europe’s digital divide exists—but bureaucracy and protectionism keep millions offline. The EU must cut red tape, enable competition, and adopt hybrid solutions—fiber where possible, satellites where needed. Affordable, accessible internet isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity.
European AI Whirlwind Week: Paris AI Summit focused on business, JD Vance criticized Europe’s AI stance, EU pledged €200B, while the U.S. and UK refused to sign an AI declaration. Mistral AI launched Le Chat, the AI Liability Directive was dropped, and the GPAI Code sparked regulatory concerns.
The EU Commission unveiled the E-Commerce Toolbox, proposing Customs Union reform, removal of duty exemptions (<€150), stricter customs controls, and stronger consumer protections. By 2026, the Digital Fairness Act may offer restricting personalized ads, impacting both consumers and SMEs.
With the release of the Competitiveness Compass this week, the European Commission has once again committed to cutting red tape. The ambition is commendable, but for real impact, the EU needs to avoid usual siloed, incremental actions and draw from best practices from across Europe.
"Global Gateway" is the EU’s €300 billion initiative to boost "smart, clean, and secure" links in digital, energy, and transport sectors worldwide, supporting emerging economies. Program's success depends on adopting new ideas, methods, and cutting bureaucracy to compete with global powers.
Elon Musk's position on AI regulation aligns more closely with the EU than with the general MAGA narrative. Time will tell whether this stance was principled and continues or whether it was aimed at certain industry players with whom Musk has had disagreements.
