Data is the new currency
Sustainable development of countries, markets, products, and innovative societies is not possible without effective data protection and responsible data governance. Fairness, security, equal opportunities, innovation, and prosperity all depend on data being used in a trustworthy manner and in accordance with the legal framework adopted across the European Union.
The Innovation Platform Foundation began its Data Protection Week by participating in the workshop on the implementation of the Data Act, organized by the European Commission in Brussels on 26 January 2026.
“The Data Act is designed to empower users—both consumers and businesses—by giving them greater control over the data generated by their connected devices, such as cars, smart TVs, and industrial machinery. It lays the foundation for a fair, innovative, and competitive European data economy.
To achieve this goal, the Data Act:
• Ensures that connected devices placed on the EU market are designed to enable data sharing;
• Gives consumers greater choice of services without having to rely solely on the device manufacturer;
• Provides business users in sectors such as manufacturing and agriculture with access to data on the performance of industrial equipment, creating opportunities to improve efficiency and optimize operations;
• Enables consumers to easily transfer data and switch between cloud service providers;
• Prohibits unfair contractual practices that could prevent data sharing.
The Data Act is a cross-sectoral regulation that establishes principles and guidelines applicable across industries. While it does not modify existing data-access obligations, future legislation should be aligned with its principles.” — European Commission
The workshop brought together participants from across the European Union representing telecommunications, legal services, data protection authorities, technology companies, consumer goods industries, policymakers, researchers, practitioners, manufacturers, data users, and governmental and non-governmental organizations.
Participants shared experiences, ideas, concerns, and recommendations, while organizers created a valuable space for discussion and questions. The common objective was clear: to support the effective implementation of the Data Act and strengthen Europe’s growth, innovation, and competitiveness through responsible and regulated data sharing.
EU Digital & Tech – thank you for a meaningful and highly valuable workshop.
