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European Industry Coalitions Champion Equal Treatment for Tech Giants in EU Cybersecurity Certifications

Published June 17, 2024

In the sphere of cloud services within the European Union, a significant coalition of 26 industry groups has voiced their call for a more inclusive approach as the EU deliberates on its Cybersecurity Certification Scheme (EUCS). This scheme is proposed to enhance cybersecurity measures across cloud services, establishing standards that businesses must adhere to. The coalition emphasizes the importance of a fair and inclusive certification process that would apply equally to all entities, including heavyweight tech giants such as Microsoft Corporation MSFT and Alphabet Inc. GOOG, as well as their subsidiary companies and smaller enterprises.

An Overview of the EUCS Concerns

The coalition’s concerns highlight the potential for discrimination if the EUCS were to favor European companies over non-European ones, which could inadvertently distort competition and hinder innovation. An unbiased certification process, the coalition argues, is crucial for maintaining a level playing field within the cloud services market. This inclusivity would not only benefit the large industry players but also contribute to a healthier ecosystem that encourages competition and fosters technological advancement.

Microsoft and Alphabet at the Forefront

Microsoft Corporation, with its vast array of software, electronics, and computing devices, along with Alphabet Inc., the parent conglomerate of Google, are two of the most influential names in technology today. As advocates for non-discrimination, it is imperative to consider their legitimate presence in the EU market. MSFT and GOOG stand to be significantly impacted by the EUCS, given their involvement in cloud services and the fact that they are among the most valuable tech companies globally. Therefore, their call for an 'inclusive' cybersecurity label is of great consequence to the broader cloud services industry.

Implications for the Cloud Services Sector

Should the EUCS be implemented with a non-discriminatory framework as the coalition advocates, it could lead to improved security standards across the board, fostering trust amongst users and accelerating digital transformation across industries. The proposed scheme thereby has far-reaching implications not only for MSFT and GOG but for every stakeholder associated with cloud services within the EU.

investment, Microsoft, Alphabet, cybersecurity, EU