Twenty-three industry groups across Europe have appealed to EU tech chief Henna Virkkunen to endorse a revised draft cybersecurity certification scheme (EUCS) for cloud services that was adjusted last year in favor of Amazon, Alphabet's Google, and Microsoft. Amid indications that the European Commission might delay or potentially abandon the proposal, which has undergone multiple revisions since its introduction by EU cybersecurity agency ENISA in 2020, the plea was made.
The labeling initiative aims to assist governments and businesses in selecting a secure and reliable vendor for their cloud computing requirements. The global cloud computing sector generates billions of euros in annual revenue.
In a joint letter dated February 11, the groups, as reported by Reuters, respectfully requested Virkkunen's backing for the prompt implementation of the European Cybersecurity Certification Scheme for Cloud Services. They highlighted the progress made in striking a balance between stringent security standards and the essential open-market principles vital for the advancement and resilience of Europe's digital economy.
Referring to the amendments made in 2024, which eliminated requirements for U.S. tech giants to establish a joint venture or collaborate with an EU-based firm for data storage within the bloc to qualify for the highest cybersecurity rating, the groups emphasized that this allows the scheme to prioritize technical criteria over political considerations.
The letter was signed by various organizations including Allied for StartUps, the American Chamber of Commerce in Estonia, Finland, Italy, Romania, and Spain, the Association of German Banks, Germany's Association of the Internet Industry, and Italian startup group InnovUp. Additionally, signatories include the Irish Business and Employers Confederation, Dutch group Nederland Digitaal, and Portugal's Association for the Promotion and Development of the Information Society.
Acknowledging receipt of the letter, the Commission indicated it would respond in due course.