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Key global trends
The Commission underlines that the EU will need to support the development and uptake of human-centred knowledge and technologies. It further stresses that the EU’s capabilities in AI, big data and robotics are similar to Japan’s but the EU needs to catch up with the USA and China. When it comes to quantum technologies, the USA, China and Japan are in the lead. The report also mentions microelectronics as promising technology.
The Commission notes that increased connectivity will result in the increased risk of cyber-attacks, including on critical infrastructures. The number of connected devices is expected to increase from 30,4 billion in 2020 to 200 billion in 2030.
The Commission explains that the coming decades will be marked by an increasing redistribution of global power, with its geo-economic centre of gravity shifting eastwards.
EU’s orientations for the coming decades
Strengthening capacity in data management, AI and cutting-edge technologies:
The report mentions the fact that currently data produced in the EU is largely stored and processed in cloud storage operated by non-EU providers, which makes it subject to third country jurisdictions. The European Commission highlights that this situation creates risks for cybersecurity, data protection, access and security.
The EU should also deploy trustworthy AI and promote standards and values with trusted partners around the world.
The European Commission also points out to the exponential increase in demand for semiconductors, the “EU needs to position itself more firmly in the development and production of next-generation technologies”. The EU is lagging behind in the production of next generation processors and advanced semiconductors. Important investments are needed to stay in the race. “This requires a tightened screening of foreign take-over of the European production capacities, investments in research and development, and setting favourable conditions across the value chain.”
Securing and diversifying supply of critical raw materials:
The Commission expects major suppliers of raw materials to impose export restrictions as demand grows. The EU needs to diversify supply, make greater use of secondary raw materials and substitute. The Commission also mentions to possibility explore novel ways of sourcing, such as seabed and space mining.
Ensuring first-mover global position in standard-setting:
The Commission notes that this objective is particularly relevant in emerging technologies, such as AI, blockchain, quantum, cybersecurity, sensitive and specialised data, digital currencies and chemicals. Trading partners are becoming more assertive in this area, for instance China with its “China standards 2035” plan. The EU will further engage in active regulatory cooperation and strive to have a leading role in international standardisation organisations, such as ISO. The Commission also underlines that EU standards are very important due to the “Brussels effect”; international companies need to comply with the EU more stringent norms to access the Single Market.
Strengthening security and defence capabilities and access to space:
The Commission highlights that there is an increased risk of conflict, internal instability and disruption of critical infrastructures. The EU should continue to support Member States to develop adequate tools to build resilience to respond to hybrid threats.
The Commission also underlines that the EU needs to ensure its capacity to defend – autonomously if needed – its essential security interests.
Space technologies are strategic means of countering threats, such as hybrid threats including cyber-espionage. This is why the Commission deems essential to support autonomous, reliable and cost-effective access to space.
If you have any questions on this issue, please do not hesitate to contact Camille Dornier - Policy Manager: camille.dornier@eurosmart.com
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