EU’s hodgepodge tech policy exposes members to Chinese vendor risks, says think tank

The European Union's disjointed approach to technology policy is leaving its member states vulnerable to risks associated with Chinese vendors, according to a report by the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI). This is a pressing concern, given the increasing reliance on digital technologies and the growing scrutiny of Chinese companies, such as Huawei, over security and data protection issues. A rethink of procurement policies could have significant implications for the tech industry, potentially impacting not only Chinese suppliers but also US vendors.

The RUSI report highlights the lack of a unified EU approach to technology policy, with individual member states having different strategies and regulations in place. This patchwork of policies creates an environment where risks associated with Chinese vendors, such as potential backdoors or data breaches, can go unchecked. Moreover, this fragmented landscape may also put EU member states at odds with each other, as well as with other countries, including the US, which has been critical of Chinese tech companies.

As the EU considers a more cohesive approach to tech policy, it's essential to watch how this might impact the global tech supply chain. Will the EU push for stricter regulations on Chinese vendors, potentially leading to a rift with Beijing? How might US suppliers, such as Cisco or Microsoft, be affected by any new procurement rules? The EU's next steps will be crucial in shaping the future of tech policy and mitigating risks associated with Chinese vendors, while also ensuring a level playing field for all suppliers.

Originally reported by theregister.com. CodeNews adds analysis for ai & agent economy readers.