European Union Outlines Plan to Reduce Dependence on American Tech
The New York Times • • business
Key Points:
- European Union officials have introduced a comprehensive plan aimed at reducing reliance on American technology, citing concerns over economic stability and geopolitical security amid tensions with the Trump administration.
- The plan includes increased government involvement in Europe's tech sector to boost data center construction and revive the semiconductor industry, alongside encouraging the purchase of technology from domestic suppliers.
- European leaders fear dependence on U.S. technology in critical areas like AI, cloud computing, and semiconductors could be exploited by current or future U.S. administrations to restrict access to essential services.
- The proposed "technology sovereignty" measures may heighten tensions with the Trump administration, which has previously threatened retaliation over Europe's digital policies.
- The European Parliament is expected to vote on the package in mid-June, ahead of a July 4 deadline set by President Trump for concluding a trade pact with the United States.