3. Creating a regulatory framework for
more investment and innovation
The largest share in dynamics and profit of the Data Economy can currently
be found in companies and regions located outside of the European Union (EU).
Whereas the information and communication technology sector in the USA
contributed up to 55% to GDP growth from 2001 to 2011, this figure was only
30% in the EU.14
However, this may change in the years to come. Innovators could become world
leaders within a few years and previous giants could quickly lose their influence.
Who tomorrow’s winner will be also depends on who creates the best regulatory
framework for further digital development.
Above all, digitisation is a business project. Accordingly, we must provide room
for the development of enterprising investments, product innovation and new
data-based services. At the same time, we must create a reliable and objective
regulatory framework. This relates to liability regulations and copyright law as
well as to fair competition. All digital business models should be part of open
and innovative competition. We want to eliminate isolated solutions, privileges,
discrimination and “lock-in” practices. We must push the process of creating
binding norms and standards. A maximum degree of market and product transparency creates the base for freedom of choice for business customers and private consumers, who should be able to make informed and independent choices.
This is our vision of a digital regulatory policy.
The Internet, an international technology, requires a level playing field regarding international regulation. Here, too, we must avoid isolated solutions based
on limited national interests. The European General Data Protection Regulation
is not only an example of a unified European approach to consumer protection,
but is also an important step on the path to competitive equality in the data
economy, due to its marketplace principle (all international marketers must
comply with European law). We want to build on this approach.
14 European Commission SWD(2015) 100 final: A digital single market strategy for Europe – analysis and evidence, an analysis published by
the European Commission.
www.de.digital
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