EU Data Act

With the EU Data Act, the European Union is creating a comprehensive legal framework for fair access to and use of data for the first time. The new, uniform rules for companies, manufacturers, service providers, and users of networked products—from smart devices to industrial machines—will take effect on September 12, 2025.

The aim is to tap into the potential of previously unused data, promote innovation, and strengthen competition. Companies will receive clear guidelines on data sharing, the interoperability of their systems, and contractual fairness. At the same time, user rights will be strengthened: in the future, users will be able to decide for themselves how their data is used and, under certain conditions, share it with third parties.

The Data Act affects not only European companies, but also international providers operating in the EU. It supplements existing regulations such as the GDPR and the Digital Markets Act and sets new standards for a transparent, secure, and sustainable data economy.