Milan, 10th October 2024 - The TECH7 associations have presented two official statements during the G7 summits taking place these days: the Conference of Data Protection Authorities (9-11 October) and the Ministerial Meeting on Industry and Technological Innovation (10 October). With these statements, the TECH7 aim to actively contribute to the debate on data protection and technological innovation issues, highlighting the importance of a global regulatory framework that promotes security and innovation.
The TECH7 bring together the leading ICT sector associations from G7 countries, including Anitec-Assinform - the Confindustria Association that brings together the leading ICT and consumer electronics companies operating in Italy (Italy), AFNUM (France), Bitkom (Germany), ITI (USA), JEITA (Japan), Numeum (France), techUK (United Kingdom), TECHNATION (Canada), and DigitalEurope (EU).
Conference of G7 Data Protection Authorities (Rome, 9-11 October 2024)
In the statement shared during the Conference of Data Protection Authorities, the TECH7 Associations reiterated that privacy and technological progress should not be seen as conflicting goals, but rather as two sides of the same coin. In the statement, industry representatives emphasized how new digital technologies are helping to improve privacy protection using advanced tools (so-called Privacy-Enhancing Technologies, PETs), such as synthetic data or specific cryptographic techniques.
These progresses are pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the field of data protection, demonstrating that innovation and privacy protection can coexist and support each other. The TECH7 Associations emphasized that, to ensure innovation and privacy, it is necessary to provide businesses with a stable regulatory environment where rules are interpreted coherently at the international level. SMEs and startups are often hampered by regulatory fragmentation that makes it complex to operate across multiple jurisdictions and grow.
In this regard, the cross-border transfer of data is an asset for a secure global digital transformation. Initiatives like the OECD’s DFFT (Data free flow with trust) aim for a risk-based approach that aligns with other regulations such as the GDPR.
Finally, the statement from TECH7 Associations highlighted innovation in the healthcare sector: new technologies can revolutionize patient treatment and care, but the success of such innovations depends on the ability to manage large volumes of personal data securely and responsibly. In conclusion, TECH7 urged the G7 Data Protection Authorities to promote uniform interpretations of regulations, considering their impact not only on privacy but also on innovation and economic growth, with a view to greater global harmonization.
G7 Ministerial Meeting on Industry and Technological Innovation – Rome, 10 October 2024
For the Ministerial Meeting on Industry and Technological Innovation, the TECH7 Associations focused on two central challenges: the management of critical raw materials and the development of emerging technologies, such as Artificial Intelligence and Quantum computing.
- Critical Raw Materials and Supply Chain Security
Critical raw materials, such as lithium and rare earth elements, are essential for the operation of advanced technologies, from battery production to digitalization through semiconductors and renewable energy (e.g., wind turbines). Without a stable and secure supply of these resources, the entire energy transition and the growth of the global technology industry are at risk. The TECH7 Associations have urged G7 countries to collaborate in diversifying sources and reducing dependencies on external suppliers, strengthening the resilience of supply chains and promoting sustainable resource management.
- Inclusive Development of Artificial Intelligence
Regarding AI, the TECH7 Associations have drawn attention to the importance of creating an ecosystem enabling the inclusive and responsible growth of this technology. This means developing international standards for the use of interoperable datasets, which allow for greater collaboration between countries and facilitate the implementation of transnational AI projects aimed at addressing global challenges. Furthermore, the TECH7 Associations emphasised the need to support SMEs, which often face barriers to AI adoption due to a lack of adequate infrastructure and skills. Targeted support could enable them to actively participate in AI development, thereby contributing to a more equitable and competitive technology ecosystem.
- Quantum Computing and Quantum Security
On the quantum technology, the Associations have urged the G7 to strengthen cooperation in the fields of Quantum Computing and Quantum Security. Defining common standards for post-quantum cryptography (PQC) and adopting advanced technologies such as Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) are essential elements for ensuring the security of digital infrastructures in the long term. The TECH7 Associations have suggested the creation of coordinated roadmaps to support this technological transition, involving both the public and private sectors to ensure that the strategies are effective and aligned internationally.
A commitment to a stronger and more integrated global digital economy
Through these initiatives, the TECH7 are committed to working with G7 institutions to promote a global technology ecosystem that is safe, innovative and inclusive.
The technology industry can provide essential skills and practical experience for developing effective policies, thus contributing to a regulatory framework that supports growth and promotes inclusive digital transformation, ensuring that the benefits of new technologies, including artificial intelligence, are accessible on a global scale.
The TECH7 Associations reaffirm their commitment to collaborating with governments and authorities to ensure that technological progress occurs in an environment that prioritizes consumer trust and the security of their data.