WASHINGTON – September 28, 2021 – BSA | The Software Alliance welcomes the inaugural meeting of the EU-US Trade and Technology Council (TTC) this week. The TTC is an opportunity for the United States and the European Union to advance a data governance vision that reflects a shared commitment to democratic principles, fair and open trade, and inclusive growth.

“We live in a world that is deeply interconnected and increasingly digital. Governments and businesses of all sizes, in every sector, are relying on digital transformation to boost recovery. As the world’s largest trading partnership, the EU and the US should lead a global conversation on the rules of the road for the data-driven economy,” said Victoria Espinel, President and CEO of BSA. “The TTC can be an outcome-oriented forum that amplifies the many transatlantic similarities in tech and trade policymaking.”

BSA encourages the EU and the US to develop joint principles for the ethical use of artificial intelligence, especially how to mitigate bias; instill a dialogue on shared objectives regarding data sharing and competition in the digital economy; and promote trade norms that prevent data localization requirements.

“So many issues that the TTC is discussing – AI, cybersecurity, privacy, and supply chains – are underpinned by the ability to transfer data across borders responsibly. There is a real opportunity for the US and EU both to work together on reducing unnecessary access barriers in other markets and to develop mutual understandings,” Espinel added. “If the TTC leads to international alignment on data governance objectives, it would be a real win for job creation and consumer protection.”