Sensitive tech list divides Europe

Some European Union (EU) officials and diplomats are concerned that the list of important technologies that the bloc just announced on September 3 could be exploited to allow larger member states to increase protection for domestic businesses.

Previously, Bloomberg reported that technologies on the "sensitive" list will be prioritized by the EU for support and prevented from being used for military purposes.

On this list, advanced semiconductor technology, artificial intelligence, quantum computing and biotechnology are considered sensitive and top priority.

The move is part of Europe's overall economic security strategy, aimed at ensuring advanced technology does not fall into the wrong hands, while reducing dependence on single suppliers, such as China.

Accordingly, the EU will cooperate with member states to conduct risk assessments for each type of technology by the end of 2023. After that, the bloc will determine the next steps, such as imposing export controls or screening foreign investment.

The technology risk assessment is bloc-wide, not country-specific, and will identify vulnerability levels and outline safety boundaries for each technology relevant to the priority group.

The broader list of technologies includes: advanced connectivity, navigation and digital technologies; advanced sensor technologies; space and propulsion, including hypersonics; energy, including nuclear fusion; robotics; advanced materials, manufacturing and recycling technologies.

There are also divisions within the European Commission over how to classify technologies, with some officials wanting a narrower list, saying it would be too broad and could open the door for companies to seek government subsidies.

Such behaviour would distort the common market, as large economies, such as France and Germany, have a distinct advantage over smaller countries that do not have the financial resources to support domestic businesses.

In addition, some experts say the list is so broad that it could send the wrong signal to investors who fear the EU could add or remove sensitive technologies in the future.

(According to Bloomberg)

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