The EU's Ambitious Global Digital Strategy: Challenging US-China Dominance
Global Digital Strategy Implementation by EU to Foster Technological Partnerships Worldwide
The European Union (EU) recently unveiled its grand digital strategy to solidify tech alliances and maintain relevance amid the ongoing US-China tech dominance. This strategic shift involves deeper partnerships with key players like Japan and Singapore, new regional initiatives under the Global Gateway, and the establishment of a Digital Partnership Network to streamline tech development collaboration.
In a surprising move, this new digital strategy omits any explicit mention of the United States, with the focus instead on building partnerships with Japan, South Korea, Canada, and India. Despite the lack of US reference, an interview with Tech Commissioner Henna Virkkunen revealed that trade negotiations are currently the priority, without providing further details.
In July 2025, the EU plans to address digital cooperation with China during the summit. Meanwhile, the strategy omits any references to the EU-US Trade and Technology Council (TTC), a forum established in 2020 to discuss trade and technology with the U.S. This omission might suggest a shift in the EU's priorities, but there's no confirmation about the future of the TTC.
The EU's focus on expanding digital alliances is reflected in this year's digital trade agreements with Singapore and South Korea, which facilitate data flows despite concerns about potential threats to personal data. The bloc also plans to structure its diplomatic network through the creation of a Digital Partnership Network, aiming to connect and coordinate relationships more effectively.
In terms of regional approach, the EU is prioritizing integration with neighboring countries, such as Ukraine, Moldova, and the Western Balkans, to support their integration into the EU's Digital Single Market. The EU will provide assistance to help these countries align with EU rules on digital identity, secure infrastructure, and regulatory frameworks. In Africa, Asia, and Latin America, the EU seeks to build on the Global Gateway initiative to co-finance the deployment of secure infrastructure, AI factories, and digital public infrastructure, while promoting European tech standards and regulatory models.
As the EU moves forward with implementing new digital partnerships, negotiations with countries in the Southern Neighborhood and sub-Saharan Africa are on the agenda. The EU also plans to roll out a dedicated Tech Business Offer, a mix of private and public EU investment, to support digital projects in partner countries. A first meeting of the Digital Partnership Network is scheduled, involving representatives from the EU and its partner countries. Additionally, joint research programs will be launched with Japan, Canada, and South Korea in areas such as quantum technologies and semiconductors.
Sources:
- European Commission
- Digital Economy
Fun Fact: Did you know that the EU's global digital strategy resembles China's Belt and Road initiative, but with a focus on digital infrastructure and technology partnerships instead of physical infrastructure?
Bonus Reading:
- Trade War
- Semiconductors
- The EU's Digital Partnership Network, a new diplomatic initiative, aims to connect and coordinate collaborative efforts in tech development with regions like the United States, which has traditionally been a key player in technology, as evidenced by the EU-US Trade and Technology Council.
- As the EU's global digital strategy aligns with the broader political landscape, it intertwines digital cooperation with international policies, such as trade negotiations and the promotion of European tech standards, thereby blending technology discussions with general-news topics like politics and trade.
