The Data Act establishes rules governing the sharing of data generated through the use of connected products or related services (e.g. the Internet of Things, industrial machinery) and allows users to access the data they generate. It will contribute to the development of new services, particularly in artificial intelligence, where vast amounts of data are required for algorithm training. It also aims to make after-sales services and repairs of connected devices cheaper. In exceptional circumstances or emergencies, such as floods and wildfires, public sector bodies can access and use data held by the private sector, the new law stipulates.

Protection of trade secrets and prevention of unlawful data transfers

During negotiations, MEPs included a clear definition of trade secrets and trade secret holders in the text to prevent unlawful data transfers and data leaks to countries with weaker data protection regulations, or situations where increased access to data is exploited by…