The EU risks edging toward digital protectionism by means that according to most studies could undermine economic growth and security in Europe. In particular, digital protectionism jeopardizes Europe’s advantage in mainstream industries that rely on edge computing without increasing competitiveness in large scale digital platforms.
The EU and America share a legitimate need to secure supply chains and strive for technological leadership. These aims are weakened by indiscriminate trade impediments but would be strengthened by carefully crafted alliances.
A more ambitious operative atlantic initiative would be a “EUKUS”. A little noted second “pillar” of AUKUS, the defense deal between Australia, the US and the UK, entails collaboration on advanced technologies, such as artificial intelligence, quantum systems and hypersonic missiles. This second pillar could be a blueprint for an atlantic ”EUKUS.”