New standardization strategy aims to put EU first

The European Commission announced its new standardization strategy today (2 February). Internal Market Commissioner Thierry Breton emphasized the importance of standardization in the Single Market and on the global stage. 

“[There are] large, non-European groups which have the majority voting rights within these organizations,” Breton said. “We’re talking about Chinese companies and groups [or] American companies and groups who are defining the standards that we are living by within the internal market. So that’s what we mean when we talk about the undue influence of these non-European players and that’s what we want to change from here on in.”

The Commission stated that the aim of the new standardization strategy is to help the EU achieve its goals for a greener and more digital economy. It also wants to become a bigger player in the global economy, in line with the EU Industrial Strategy of 2020.

“Ensuring that data is protected in artificial intelligence or ensuring that mobile devices are secure from hacking, rely on standards and must be in line with EU democratic values,” said Executive Vice-President for a Europe Fit for the Digital Age, Margrethe Vestager. “In the same way, we need standards for the roll-out of important investment projects, like hydrogen or batteries and to valorise innovation investment by providing EU companies with an important first-mover advantage.”

The strategy includes five sets of actions which include amending current regulations and encouraging European leadership and skills in standardization. Along with these, the Commission wants to anticipate and adapt to the needs of the European economy by establishing a Chief Standardisation Officer position, which will advise the Commission on updating standardization needs. 

“Technical standards are of strategic importance,” said Breton. “Europe’s technological sovereignty, ability to reduce dependencies and protection of EU values will rely on our ability to be a global standard-setter.”

Standards are set to ensure that companies ensure the compatibility of products and services, reduce manufacturing costs, improve safety and foster innovation. It is hoped that if the EU had a stronger role in setting global standards it would bolster the EU’s economy and ambitions for an environmentally cleaner and digitally integrated economy.

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