The Cloud & AI Development Act is a central pillar of the EU AI Continent Action Plan. Its aim is to better align national and European AI strategies, foster cross-border cooperation, and accelerate the deployment of trustworthy AI. The Cloud & AI Development Act links infrastructure and innovation and ensures that cloud and AI applications in Europe are interoperable, secure, and values-based.
Cloud and AI technologies form the backbone of the European digital economy: from healthcare and mobility to industry and public services. In the face of growing global competition and increasing geopolitical risks, the EU must strengthen its capabilities and capacities to secure the provision of critical infrastructure, build resilience, and foster innovation.
The proposed law is a crucial step in this direction: it can help Europe secure trustworthy, high-performance cloud and AI services—through a clear definition of "sovereign cloud," the promotion of open standards, interoperability and multi-cloud strategies, and the safeguarding of a diverse and competitive provider landscape.
To make this vision a reality, the law should introduce accelerated and fully digitalized approval procedures, create better access to renewable energy and grid-connected sites, and provide stable investment incentives and fair procurement rules. Public contracts, especially in critical sectors, should set high standards for data sovereignty and security—without excluding innovation. Close alignment with existing EU regulations such as the AI Act and the Data Act is essential to avoid duplication and reduce compliance burdens.
Finally, sustainability must be at the core of the law: energy-efficient infrastructure and regional distribution are key to responsibly managing growing demand.
With these measures, Europe can strengthen its digital sovereignty, secure global competitiveness, and ensure that cloud and AI development supports both economic growth and European values.
