European data economy troubles continue despite its €500 billion value

The European Commission is moving to simplify EU data rules through digital omnibus packages and a broader merger of data laws.

Europe’s data economy is large, but broad personal-data rules, uneven GDPR enforcement, and limited EU guidance are slowing growth.

Lawmakers and privacy groups are split on the reforms, with some seeing them as necessary and others warning of Big Tech influence.

The debate will shape EU competitiveness, data governance, and how easily companies can scale across member states.