BRUSSELS – June 4, 2021 – The Global Data Alliance welcomes today’s adoption of new Standard Contractual Clauses (SCCs) for data transfers from the European Union. SCCs are a vital legal mechanism used by 90 percent of all companies and organizations that transfer data out of the EU.

“It is our hope that the updated SCCs will enhance certainty and predictability relating to data transfers in commerce and business communications between Europe and the rest of the world,” said Isabelle Roccia, Director, Policy at BSA | The Software Alliance. “All industries—and the customers they serve—benefit greatly from the ability to transfer data across borders in a manner that enhances data protection. Today’s updates to the SCCs are an important step toward this objective.”

The Global Data Alliance strongly supports EU efforts to enhance personal data protection and standards of data governance while also promoting cross-border data transfers. The ability to access technology and transfer data securely across international digital networks is of central importance to any company with international business activities. Cross-border data transfers support many important priorities, including international sales and marketing, transnational research and development, cybersecurity, fraud monitoring and prevention, anti-money laundering, anti-corruption, and a broad range of other activities relating to the protection of health, privacy, security, intellectual property, and regulatory compliance. The Global Data Alliance supports the EU’s commitment to creating economic opportunity and advancing these policy objectives through cross-border data transfers.