EU tech chief raises concerns over dependence on US tech companies

Europe’s tech chief has warned against excessive reliance on US technology companies in critical sectors such as cybersecurity and defense, stressing the need for greater European digital independence.

Speaking at the Web Summit Rio in Brazil, the Americas’ largest technology conference, European Union tech sovereignty commissioner Henna Virkkunen said Europe remains heavily dependent on foreign technologies, particularly in areas like artificial intelligence.

“Currently, 80% of our technologies come from outside Europe,” Virkkunen told journalists on the sidelines of the summit, adding that the EU does not want to depend solely on companies from the United States for critical technologies.

She emphasized that Europe’s drive for digital sovereignty is not about protectionism but about strengthening its own technological capabilities. The bloc is investing in AI development tailored to European languages, content and values, while working to build a more resilient tech ecosystem.

The remarks come after the EU unveiled a new strategy aimed at reducing its dependence on American and Asian technology providers and boosting homegrown innovation.

Virkkunen also announced that Brazil will become the EU’s fifth digital partner, joining Japan, Canada, Singapore and South Korea.

The EU and the government of Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva are set to sign an agreement aimed at expanding cooperation in data governance, artificial intelligence, digital infrastructure, connectivity and online platforms.

Highlighting Brazil’s growing digital economy, Virkkunen noted that the country has around 160 million internet users and ranks among the world’s top 10 technology markets, creating significant opportunities for collaboration between Brazil and Europe.