European Commission Plans to Reduce Reliance on US Technology

The European Commission is developing a package designed to reduce the EU's dependence on American data centres, artificial intelligence, microchips, and software. The package encompasses four key areas where Europe aims to strengthen its strategic autonomy.

The European Commission is finalizing a comprehensive package aimed at reducing the EU's dependence on US digital technology. Brussels wants Europe to become self-sufficient in data centres, artificial intelligence, microchips, and software.

Data Centres and Cloud Infrastructure

One of the main areas of dependence is cloud infrastructure and data centres, which are currently dominated largely by American companies such as Amazon, Microsoft, and Google. The EU wants to create a European alternative that would ensure data security and independence from third-country legislation.

Artificial Intelligence and Microchips

The second priority is the development of artificial intelligence, where Europe is currently clearly falling behind both the US and China. As a third important area, the focus is on microchip manufacturing — a project already channelling billions of euros through the European Chips Act. As a fourth pillar, Europe wants to reduce its dependence on American software, particularly in public sector information systems.

Strategic Autonomy as an EU Goal

The broader context of the entire package is a wider geopolitical tension, with Europe feeling that excessive dependence on a single partner makes it vulnerable. The initiative is being accelerated by trade tensions between the US and EU as well as shifts in Washington's political climate. According to experts, this is a long-term strategic goal that will take years to fully implement.