19
May
2026
Watch
Opportunities and challenges presented by a comprehensive artificial intelligence strategy for EU trade (debate)
Mr President, thank you very much. Europe must believe in its capabilities. Artificial intelligence has an impact on trade, on competitiveness, on economic resilience. AI is also changing the defence sector. The European Union needs a comprehensive strategy on AI – in the economy, industry, administration and services. Already today, 42% of commercial companies use AI, 29% plan to implement so-called AI assistants supporting purchases. AI improves supply chain management, cross-border transactions, customs enforcement, building resilience against hybrid threats. The EU is also committed to working with partners, but most importantly, it must consistently build European technological sovereignty: standards, competences, own computing infrastructure, the European cloud, AI factories and the semiconductor sector. Without it, we will be dependent on others. Our answer must be a combination of competitiveness and security. Congratulations to the rapporteur, Brando Benifei. All the best!