The EU considers limiting US cloud platforms in processing sensitive government data

According to CNBCciting two EU Commission officials, the European Union is discussing restrictions on member governments using US cloud platforms to handle sensitive data. The EU Commission is expected to propose a "technological sovereignty plan" on May 27th, and related content may be included.

The core of the discussion is not to completely exclude overseas cloud services, but to set boundaries for the use of public sector sensitive data. US cloud platforms currently hold an important position in the European market. If government data in financial, judicial, and health sectors are required to use European cloud capacity, government digital procurement, cloud infrastructure, and AI service supply chains will be affected.

Officials said that the relevant rules may require the use of higher levels of sovereign cloud infrastructure in some sensitive and strategic areas. In other words, overseas cloud platforms may still participate in government contracts, but face stricter restrictions when dealing with highly sensitive data.

The EU Commission spokesperson said that this plan is part of "Europe waking up and taking action," and will improve opportunities for sovereign cloud services through public procurement, and support more cloud and AI service providers entering the market. This means that the policy goal is not only to reduce dependence on US cloud platforms but also to create a clearer demand entry for European domestic suppliers.

However, even if the plan is announced on May 27th, it still needs approval from 27 member countries. The final impact depends on whether the restriction terms are clear enough and whether the scope of application covers key public sector data.