LIKTA share its opinion on European legislative initiatives

The Latvian Information and Communication Technology Association (LIKTA) in co-operation with European ICT associations and other industry organizations has expressed its views on several European legislative initiatives.

Firstly, to avoid bureaucracy for European companies when drafting the EU Digital Services Act (DSA) and to contribute to the digital single market by strengthening standardized and functioning processes across Europe. This will support the development of digitalization and innovation. The Digital Services Act contains rules that apply to online intermediation services, i.e. providers offering network infrastructure, cloud computing, website hosting, online platforms such as online marketplaces, app stores, collaborative economy platforms, social media platforms, and other.

Secondly, on the technological sovereignty of the European Union, calling for a focus on technological autonomy. The aim is to enable every business or consumer to choose the right partner, product or service for themselves, thus developing innovations that will benefit for the whole European economy.

Thirdly, on the Digital Markets Act (DMA) in the discussion of the Competitiveness Council of the European Union on 27 May 2021. The position focuses, inter alia, on regulatory dialogue as an integral well-functioning part of the Digital Markets Act. DMA is designed to regulate the work of large online platforms. Together with the Digital Services Act, it is one of the key elements of Europe’s digital strategy.

Fourthly, on the exchange of data between the EU and the US, calling for support of secure and transparent transatlantic cooperation to promote the digital transformation and the European single market. The European Data Protection Board is currently developing recommendations on the transfer of data to third countries. At present, opinions differ between EU Member States.

Positions see enclosed:

Joint statement to the 27 May Competitiveness Council on The Digital Markets Act (DMA);

Joint letter from European industry players: The Digital Services Act must be future-proofed if Europe’s digital businesses are to prosper;

Joint letter on EU-US Trade and Technology Council by EU ICT associations;

Europe Needs to Stay Open