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The growing adoption of cloud computing and Artificial Intelligence (AI) services creates new opportunities, but also poses challenges, particularly in terms of security, technological dependence and control over data and digital infrastructures.

It is against this backdrop that the proposal for a Cloud and AI Development Act (CADA) emerges. Presented by the European Commission on 3 June, the proposal aims to strengthen the European Union’s (EU) technological autonomy, competitiveness and digital resilience.

One of the main developments is the establishment of a European cloud sovereignty framework, structured around four assurance levels, with progressively more stringent requirements.

These levels consider factors such as the location of data and infrastructure within the EU, providers’ independence from third countries, transparency in software supply chains and European control over services.

The proposal also introduces new rules for the public procurement of cloud services. The selection of services will need to consider the risks associated with the nature of the data being processed, the possibility of access by entities from third countries and the consequences of potential service disruptions.

For certain private entities operating in critical sectors, the proposal also provides for the possibility of conducting impact assessments of the risks associated with the use of cloud services. Although these assessments are currently voluntary, the European Commission may introduce specific obligations under certain circumstances.

The proposal also seeks to address the growing demand for computing capacity in Europe, driven largely by the development of Artificial Intelligence.

To this end, it provides for the establishment of acceleration zones for data centers, the simplification of administrative and licensing procedures, and the recognition of strategic projects.

The goal is ambitious: to at least triple Europe's data center capacity over the next five to seven years, while promoting sustainable infrastructure and reducing dependence on external technological resources.

The third pillar of the proposal focuses on research, innovation and technological development.

Key measures include the establishment of AI experimentation and adoption acceleration centers, the development of national cloud and AI strategies, and support for next-generation technologies.

These initiatives aim to facilitate access to new technological solutions, encourage their adoption by businesses and public administrations, and strengthen Europe's position in the development of strategic digital technologies.

CADA represents an important step in Europe's strategy towards a more competitive, secure and resilient digital economy, in which technological autonomy plays an increasingly central role.