The European Union is reportedly making plans to introduce new laws to address the potential dangers of Chinese technology. One proposal being considered is the implementation of a screening process for investments going out of the EU that specifically target China. Additionally, the EU is looking at developing a coordinated response to address any risks associated with Beijing’s use of technology. The scope of the proposed laws is intended to go beyond current restrictions, bans, and investigations focused on apps such as TikTok.

Last week Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission said that it is important for the EU to be ready to establish protective measures against the potential exploitation of trade and investment by China. 

She further emphasized that preventing China from acquiring “sensitive technologies” that can be utilized to suppress human rights or impose security restrictions is crucial and China’s evolving policies may necessitate the creation of new protective measures for key sectors. In cases where dual-use purposes cannot be ruled out or there are concerns about human rights, there must be a distinct demarcation regarding whether exports or investments align with the EU’s security interests.

These statements come right after the ban of the Chinese app Tiktok. Back in February, TikTok was banned by the European Commission and the EU Council on staff phones. This followed in the footsteps of the US federal government and over 25 states who had already prohibited the use of TikTok on official work devices. Canada, Belgium, and Britain have also implemented similar measures.

Though the EU has only banned TikTook from staff phones, it is planning to concentrate its defenses on safeguarding other “sensitive high-tech areas” such as microelectronics, robotics, quantum computing, biotech, and artificial intelligence. 

Von der Leyen emphasized the importance of preventing EU companies’ knowledge, expertise, and resources from being used to strengthen the military and intelligence capabilities of systemic rivals. She called for a review of any potential gaps in the EU’s existing toolbox that may enable the leak of sensitive technologies through investments in other nations. The focus, according to von der Leyen, should be on emerging technologies that have the potential to develop military capabilities and pose a risk to national security.

• China Bans Tech Companies from Offering ChatGPT Services
• Italy Bans ChatGPT Over Privacy Concerns
• TikTok Banned On French Government Devices, Alongside Candy Crush

(via)

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