EU International Digital Strategy: Summary and Recommendations for Businesses and Governments

On 5 June 2025, the European Commission and the EU High Representative unveiled a new International Digital Strategy – a joint vision guiding the EU’s external digital policy. This strategy positions the EU as a stable and reliable partner, open to digital cooperation in a challenging geopolitical landscape. It aims to boost the EU’s competitiveness in critical technologies while supporting partner countries’ digital transitions, reaffirming a commitment to a rules-based global digital order grounded in democratic values and fundamental rights. The sections below summarize the strategy’s key objectives and focus areas, followed by actionable recommendations for businesses and for governments to align with and benefit from this strategy.

Key Objectives and Focus Areas of the EU’s International Digital Strategy

Strategic Objectives: The EU’s International Digital Strategy centers on three primary objectives:

1. Expand International Partnerships and Dialogues: Deepen existing Digital Partnerships and policy dialogues, establish new ones, and launch a Digital Partnership Network. This broad cooperation will strengthen technological competitiveness and security for both the EU and its partners. In practice, this builds on structures like Trade and Technology Councils, digital trade agreements, and regional alliances, and will link them into a coordinated global network of like-minded partners.
2. Deploy an EU Tech Business Offer: Roll out a comprehensive EU Tech Business Offer that combines European public and private investments to support partner countries’ digital transformation. This “Tech Team Europe” approach will deliver tailor-made packages – for mutual benefit – focusing on projects like AI innovation hubs (“AI Factories”), secure connectivity infrastructure, Digital Public Infrastructure, cybersecurity capacity, and more. By mobilising capital and expertise, the EU aims to expand its global tech footprint and support partners’ digital growth through high-quality investment initiatives (e.g. under the Global Gateway programme).
3. Strengthen Global Digital Governance: Promote a rules-based global digital order aligned with EU values. This involves leading in setting international standards and norms for emerging technologies, internet governance, and digital trade, to ensure transparency, security, and respect for human rights online. The EU seeks greater regulatory alignment and legal certainty internationally – creating a more predictable environment for companies and users alike. In essence, the strategy elevates the EU’s role in global digital rule-making and standardization, advancing high standards for issues from data protection to AI ethics.

Priority Focus Areas: In cooperation with partner countries, the strategy highlights several priority domains for action:

1. Secure and Trusted Digital Infrastructure: Ensuring robust, secure connectivity (from 5G networks to undersea cables and satellites) as the backbone for critical sectors like energy, transport, finance, and health. The strategy underscores investing in trusted infrastructure (e.g. using the EU’s 5G security Toolbox guidelines) to prevent vulnerabilities and strengthen resilience.
2. Emerging Technologies (AI, 5G/6G, Semiconductors, Quantum): Maintaining leadership in artificial intelligence, next-generation telecom (5G/6G), semiconductor chips, quantum computing and other cutting-edge tech. The EU will work with partners on R&D collaboration, setting global standards (for example, common AI governance frameworks and 6G standards), and securing supply chains for these strategic technologies.
3. Digital Governance and Regulatory Alignment: Fostering digital governance models that protect human rights, democratic principles, and social cohesion. This includes aligning regulations on data privacy, platform accountability, and AI ethics. By working toward regulatory interoperability, the EU and partners aim to create a safer, more open digital environment. The strategy reinforces commitments to regulatory alignment and legal certainty in areas like cross-border data flows and internet usage – so that businesses and citizens can operate under consistent high standards globally.
4. Cybersecurity Cooperation: Deepening cooperation to strengthen cyber defense and resilience in partner countries. The EU views helping allies improve their cybersecurity as an “investment in the EU’s own security”. Efforts will include capacity building (e.g. training, joint exercises, incident response support) and intelligence-sharing to combat cyber threats such as state-sponsored attacks or cybercrime, thereby protecting critical infrastructure and networks on all sides.
5. Digital Public Infrastructure and Digital Identity: Developing and interconnecting digital public services like e-government platforms, digital IDs, and payment systems. The strategy envisages working toward mutual recognition of digital identities and public infrastructure between the EU and key partners, which can simplify cross-border business, facilitate travel and citizen mobility, and ensure interoperability of services. By promoting common technical standards for these public digital goods, the EU aims to make it easier for people and businesses to trust and use digital services across borders.
6. Online Platforms and Fundamental Rights Protection: Promoting a safer online ecosystem by upholding fundamental rights in the digital sphere. This includes protecting children online, safeguarding privacy and personal data, defending freedom of expression and democracy, and ensuring platform accountability. The EU will continue pushing global conversations on platform regulation – for instance, advocating for transparency in algorithms and content moderation practices – so that the online environment remains open and secure. Partners are encouraged to adopt compatible regulations (similar to the EU’s Digital Services Act and privacy laws) to create a level playing field and protect users’ rights.

In summary, the EU’s International Digital Strategy provides a comprehensive external digital agenda: expanding partnerships and investment initiatives, building secure infrastructure, championing emerging tech, and shaping global digital rules in line with European values. Below, we translate these strategic aims into concrete recommendations for businesses and for governments, to help them align with and take advantage of the opportunities this strategy offers.

Recommendations for Businesses (Tech Companies, Infrastructure Providers, Startups)

Businesses have a pivotal role in the EU’s international digital agenda – from deploying technology on the ground to shaping standards. Companies should proactively align with the strategy to both contribute to its success and unlock new opportunities. Key recommendations for businesses include:

1. Engage in Digital Partnerships and Dialogues: Proactively participate in the international digital partnerships and policy dialogues that the EU is expanding. The strategy’s top objective is to deepen such partnerships, which means there will be growing forums (Trade and Technology Councils, Digital Partnerships, etc.) where industry input is needed. Tech companies should join business delegations or industry advisory groups in these dialogues to share expertise and ensure their interests are represented. By engaging with EU-led partnership networks, firms can build relationships in new markets and stay informed of upcoming joint projects or standards discussions.
2. Leverage the EU Tech Business Offer and Investment Initiatives: The EU’s new Tech Business Offer will bundle public and private funding to support digital projects in partner countries. Businesses – from large telecom operators to startups – should seize this opportunity by aligning their project proposals with the priority areas the EU is funding (e.g. proposing to build secure connectivity infrastructure or local AI solutions). For example, if the EU is investing in AI innovation hubs (“AI Factories”) or broadband in a region, relevant companies can partner with European institutions to implement these projects. Firms should monitor calls for proposals under programs like Global Gateway and Team Europe, and consider co-investing or forming consortia to bid for these projects. By doing so, businesses can gain financial support, enter new markets with EU backing, and contribute to partners’ digital development.
3. Align with Global Digital Governance Standards and Regulations: Anticipate and adapt to the global standards and rules that the EU is promoting. The strategy seeks a rules-based digital order and greater regulatory alignment internationally. For companies, this means ensuring your products and services comply with emerging norms on data protection, AI ethics, and platform accountability. Adopt EU standards as a baseline – for instance, if you handle user data, meet GDPR-level privacy protection even in markets where it’s not yet required. If you develop AI, follow the EU’s trustworthy AI guidelines (transparency, bias mitigation, human oversight) so that your solutions are marketable globally under high-standard regulations. By aligning early with these frameworks, businesses not only avoid legal risks but also gain a competitive edge as trusted players in markets that value security and ethics. Additionally, consider contributing to international standardization efforts (e.g. through bodies like ISO, ITU, or industry consortia) to help shape rules in areas like 6G, IoT, or cybersecurity – the EU strategy emphasizes the need for industry’s voice in these forums.
4. Invest in Secure and Resilient Digital Infrastructure: Companies involved in digital infrastructure (telecom operators, cloud providers, equipment manufacturers) should prioritize security and resilience in their networks and services, aligning with the EU’s focus on trusted infrastructure. This could mean adopting the EU 5G Toolbox recommendations for network security, using vetted suppliers, and implementing strong encryption and cybersecurity measures in all layers of infrastructure. Infrastructure providers should also explore partnering with EU-funded projects to expand connectivity in underserved regions – for example, joining an EU-supported consortium to lay secure undersea cables or roll out 5G in a partner country. By demonstrating high security standards and partnering with EU initiatives, businesses can both mitigate risks and position themselves as preferred providers for future international infrastructure projects.
5. Focus on AI, 5G/6G, Semiconductors, and Other Emerging Technologies: The strategy highlights these emerging technologies as critical cooperation areas. Tech companies and startups should intensify R&D and innovation in AI, next-gen telecom, semiconductor tech, quantum computing, and related fields. Seek out collaboration platforms – for instance, European-funded research programs or innovation networks – that connect EU and partner country entities in these domains. A business developing AI solutions could join an EU-partner country AI sandbox or pilot program to demonstrate its technology with public sector support. Semiconductor firms might partner through the EU’s Chip Acts initiatives or with regional manufacturing projects to build more resilient supply chains. By aligning with the EU’s strategic tech priorities, companies can benefit from funding, knowledge transfer, and early access to new markets, while helping drive technological advancement in line with democratic values (e.g. human-centric AI). Remember that the EU is keen on attracting global talent and investment in these sectors – businesses should leverage scholarships, tech exchange programs, and venture funding streams the EU might offer to build capacity in these cutting-edge areas.
6. Strengthen Cybersecurity Practices and Partnerships: In an era of escalating cyber threats, the EU’s strategy makes cybersecurity a cornerstone of international cooperation. For businesses, this means both shoring up internal cybersecurity and collaborating externally. Companies should implement robust cybersecurity frameworks (e.g. adhering to ISO 27001 standards, zero-trust architectures, regular audits) to protect their operations and supply chains – this not only safeguards the business but also aligns with the EU’s expectations of trusted partners. Additionally, firms should participate in joint cybersecurity initiatives: for example, sharing threat intelligence with industry information-sharing groups or participating in EU-organized cyber drills and training in partner countries. If your company operates in a partner country, offer to collaborate with EU agencies or local authorities on capacity-building (such as training government staff in cybersecurity, or helping establish a local Cyber Emergency Response Team). By being proactive, businesses can help create a safer digital ecosystem and build trust with both the EU and customers (who will increasingly value companies that take cybersecurity seriously).
7. Contribute to Digital Public Infrastructure and Interoperability Solutions: The EU strategy advocates for developing open, interoperable digital public infrastructures (like digital identity systems, e-governance platforms, payment systems) that work across borders. Companies in fintech, enterprise software, or civic-tech should align their products with these goals. For instance, if you provide digital identity solutions or payment platforms, ensure they support standards that could enable mutual recognition with European systems. This might involve adopting EU technical standards (such as those used in the EU’s eIDAS framework for electronic ID) so that your solutions can plug into a wider ecosystem. Tech providers can also partner with governments and EU teams to build out national digital public services – for example, helping digitize public records or create health information systems – under grants or contracts facilitated by the EU Tech Business Offer. By designing products for interoperability and openness, businesses will be able to serve a larger user base (spanning multiple countries) and will be well-placed to win contracts as digital public infrastructure is rolled out in various regions.
8. Uphold Fundamental Rights and User Trust on Online Platforms: If your business operates an online platform or digital service (social media, e-commerce, content platform, etc.), prioritize responsible practices that protect users’ rights. The EU intends to continue promoting child online protection, privacy, and freedom of expression globally. Concretely, platform companies should implement strong content moderation policies (e.g. removing illegal hate speech or child exploitation content swiftly), age-appropriate protections for young users, and privacy-by-design in services – even in jurisdictions where such rules are not yet mandated. Embrace transparency measures (like clear terms of service, algorithmic transparency reports) to align with the spirit of EU regulations like the Digital Services Act. By proactively meeting high standards on safety and privacy, businesses will not only comply with any future regulations in various markets but also gain user trust and international credibility. In addition, engage with initiatives focused on digital rights – for example, join discussions or working groups on ethical AI, or partner with civil society on digital literacy programs – to demonstrate a commitment to the fundamental values that the EU is championing worldwide.

By taking these actions, businesses can align with the EU’s International Digital Strategy and even help drive its success. This alignment opens doors to funding, partnerships, and new markets, while also ensuring companies remain on the forefront of global best practices in technology and governance.

Recommendations for Governments (EU Partner Countries and Allies)

Governments, especially in countries looking to deepen digital ties with the EU, should actively leverage the International Digital Strategy to accelerate their own digital development. By cooperating with the EU’s initiatives and aligning policy frameworks, partner countries can attract investment, strengthen their digital infrastructure, and ensure their digital transformation adheres to high standards. Key recommendations for governments include:

1. Forge and Deepen Digital Partnerships with the EU: Proactively seek out or upgrade Digital Partnership agreements and formal digital dialogues with the EU. The strategy prioritizes expanding international partnerships – deepening existing ones and forming new ones – so there is a clear opening for countries to engage. Governments should initiate discussions with the EU to sign Memoranda of Understanding or partnership agreements focusing on digital cooperation (if not already in place). If you already have a digital dialogue or Trade and Technology Council with the EU, consider widening its scope to new areas (e.g. emerging tech, cybersecurity). Joining the EU’s proposed Digital Partnership Network could be particularly valuable: it would connect your country with a broader community of nations collaborating on tech and governance issues. By becoming an active partner, a government gains access to EU expertise, policy support, and potentially funding for joint initiatives.
2. Leverage the EU Tech Business Offer for National Digital Projects: Governments should identify priority digital projects in their country that could qualify for support under the EU’s Tech Business Offer and related investment programs. This EU Tech Business Offer will pool EU public and private investments to help partner countries’ digital transition (covering areas like AI, connectivity, digital public services, cybersecurity). To tap into this, ensure your country has a clear digital strategy or project pipeline (such as expanding rural broadband, setting up an AI research center, or establishing a digital ID system) and communicate these priorities to EU counterparts. Work with the EU to structure these projects as part of initiatives like Global Gateway, which is already channeling billions into infrastructure in partner countries. It’s also wise to create an enabling environment for investment: streamline regulations for foreign tech investments, offer co-financing or tax incentives for projects, and guarantee transparency and accountability in how funds are used. By effectively leveraging the EU’s Tech Business Offer, governments can accelerate infrastructure upgrades and innovation with the financial and technical backing of Europe.
3. Align with Global Digital Governance and EU Regulatory Standards: To facilitate smoother cooperation, partner governments should aim for regulatory alignment with the EU in key digital policy areas. The EU’s strategy emphasizes a rules-based global order and shared values – in practice, this means convergence on laws and norms like data protection, online content regulation, and AI oversight. Countries should consider adopting or mirroring high-standard EU frameworks such as the GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) for data privacy or principles from the upcoming EU AI Act for artificial intelligence governance. Aligning national laws with these benchmarks will not only protect your citizens’ rights but also provide legal certainty for companies operating across borders, encouraging European businesses to invest or expand services in your country. Additionally, engage in multilateral forums and coalitions that the EU is active in – for example, the Global Partnership on AI or international discussions on platform governance – to jointly shape global norms. By harmonizing with EU standards and participating in global digital governance, governments can ensure they are co-creators of international rules rather than rule-takers, and that their citizens benefit from a safer and more open digital environment.
4. Build Secure and Trusted Digital Infrastructure (with EU Support): Prioritize the development of secure, high-quality digital infrastructure, leveraging the EU’s assistance and best practices. The strategy singles out secure connectivity (broadband networks, data centers, etc.) as a foundation for all digital progress. Governments should collaborate with the EU on infrastructure projects – for example, adopting the EU’s 5G security Toolbox guidelines when upgrading telecom networks or partnering on new backbone projects like fiber-optic cables and internet exchange points. Through the Global Gateway and other tools, the EU is offering investment for infrastructure – ensure your country is ready to absorb these funds by having clear plans and by addressing any regulatory barriers (such as licensing, spectrum allocation, or public-private partnership laws) that might slow down deployment. Also consider security from the start: require high cybersecurity standards in tenders for new infrastructure (so vendors build in robust security) and work with European experts to audit and improve the resilience of existing critical systems (power grids, financial systems, etc.). By focusing on secure infrastructure now, governments will not only attract EU funding but also shield their economies from future disruptions or vulnerabilities.
5. Collaborate on AI, 5G/6G, Semiconductors, and Emerging Technologies: Actively seek collaboration with the EU in developing emerging technologies – this is a win-win for boosting innovation capacity. The EU is keen to work with partners on AI, next-gen networks (6G), semiconductors, quantum tech, and more. Governments can negotiate joint research programs or innovation partnerships in these fields. For example, consider co-funding an AI research center or startup incubator with EU support, where experts from both sides can work on ethical AI solutions for local challenges. On 5G/6G, engage with European initiatives to trial new telecom technologies (perhaps your country could host a 6G pilot with EU companies). For semiconductors and hardware, if your country has relevant industry or raw materials, explore being part of the EU’s semiconductor supply chain initiatives (the EU may be open to investing in fabrication or talent development abroad to diversify sources). Also, invest in education and training in STEM fields in coordination with EU programs (scholarships, exchange programs) to cultivate the human capital needed for these advanced tech sectors. By partnering with Europe on emerging tech, governments can accelerate knowledge transfer, build local industries, and ensure they remain part of the conversation as global tech standards and markets are formed.
6. Enhance Cybersecurity Cooperation and Capacity: Given that cyber threats cross borders, governments should strengthen cybersecurity in tandem with EU efforts. The EU views helping partners improve cyber defense as directly beneficial to Europe’s own security – so there is strong political will (and likely funding) for joint action here. Governments should take advantage of EU offers for cybersecurity capacity-building: for instance, invite EU experts to help draft or update national cybersecurity strategies and legislation, or to train your cybersecurity agencies and police in combating cybercrime. Establish or reinforce national Computer Emergency Response Teams (CERTs) and consider linking them with the EU’s Cybersecurity Rapid Response networks for threat information sharing. You can also collaborate with the EU on cyber exercises and simulations to test and improve readiness against attacks. Importantly, update your legal frameworks to criminalize cyberattacks and online crime in line with Budapest Convention standards, making it easier to cooperate with European law enforcement. By elevating your country’s cybersecurity posture – with better laws, skills, and systems – you protect your own national interests and become a more trusted digital partner to the EU. This can lead to deeper intelligence sharing and possibly inclusion in projects that require high security (for example, joint defence-tech developments or secure communications networks).
7. Develop Digital Public Infrastructure with Cross-Border Interoperability: Modernize your country’s digital public infrastructure (such as national ID systems, digital health records, e-government portals) in alignment with international best practices so they can eventually interface with EU systems. The strategy promotes mutual recognition of digital identities and public services with partners, which could greatly benefit citizens (e.g. allowing a trusted digital ID issued in one country to be used in another for services or travel). To move in this direction, governments should adopt open standards and frameworks compatible with the EU’s. For instance, if rolling out a digital ID, consider using standards that align with the EU’s eIDAS regulation, so that in the future mutual recognition deals can be struck. Work with the EU on pilot projects – perhaps an interoperability project where a few public services (like verifying educational credentials or driver’s licenses) are recognized between your country and an EU Member State via digital means. Additionally, invest in basic digital public goods (secure data exchanges, cloud infrastructure for government services) possibly using EU technical assistance or funding. By building interoperable digital systems, governments make it easier for businesses to expand across borders and for citizens to access services internationally, thus integrating more deeply into the global digital economy.
8. Protect Fundamental Rights Online and Align Platform Regulations: Align your country’s internet and platform regulations with the fundamental rights standards championed by the EU. The strategy calls for protecting children online, freedom of speech, and privacy in the digital realm – core values that should reflect in national policies. Governments should review and, if needed, strengthen laws on online content moderation, child protection (such as measures against online child abuse material), and data protection. Drawing inspiration from EU legislation (like the Digital Services Act for platform accountability or the General Data Protection Regulation for privacy) can provide a ready-made blueprint for high-standard regulation. Cooperate with the EU on enforcement too: for example, joining international initiatives to counter disinformation and election interference, or working with European regulators to ensure that big tech companies apply consistent practices in your jurisdiction. Ensuring that freedom of expression is upheld while removing illegal content is a delicate balance – engage in the EU’s human-rights based dialogues for guidance on this balance. By upholding these rights and aligning with EU norms, countries not only protect their citizens but also make themselves more compatible partners for digital trade and innovation. Companies from Europe (and globally) are more likely to offer their services or invest in markets where user rights and rule of law in digital spaces are respected, knowing that there will be predictability and legal certainty.

In conclusion, by following these recommendations, both businesses and governments can actively participate in the EU’s International Digital Strategy and reap its benefits. For businesses, alignment means access to new markets, funding, and shaping global standards. For governments, cooperation means accelerated digital development, enhanced security, and closer integration with a rules-based global digital order. The EU’s strategy is not merely a policy document – it is an open invitation for partners to build a shared digital future founded on trust, innovation, and fundamental rights. Embracing this strategy’s opportunities will enable companies and countries alike to thrive in the evolving digital landscape while upholding the values that make the digital revolution work for everyone.

Summary by DigitalTrade4.EU