Chancellor Olaf Scholz has declared Germany’s ambitious goal of achieving $20 billion in technology exports by 2025, emphasizing the need for accelerated efforts. Facing challenges such as a skilled labor shortage and historically low investment, Berlin outlines three key strategies to reclaim tech leadership.
Germany is poised to compete in the global race for technology, but the country needs to pick up the pace.
That was the message Chancellor Olaf Scholz delivered to an audience of lawmakers, industry leaders and civil society representatives gathered in the city of Jena during a two-day digital policy summit.
“We need to accelerate our efforts,” Scholz, a member of the centre-left Social Democrats, said during a panel discussion Tuesday afternoon.
1. Push for Data Access:
Recognizing the importance of data in technological leadership, Germany is launching initiatives like Marispace-X and establishing a national data institute to facilitate data sharing in areas ranging from energy consumption to long-COVID impact. Challenges remain, with concerns over legal issues and responsibilities slowing progress.
2. Ethical Technology Leadership:
Germany aims to leverage its commitment to privacy by leading in the creation of “trustworthy AI” adhering to strict ethical standards. While aligned with the EU’s strategy, officials caution against excessive regulation, emphasizing the need to regulate specific applications rather than stifling overall technological innovation.
3. Addressing Tech Talent Shortage:
Germany faces a shortage of skilled tech workers, hindering the growth of startups and tech companies. With an increasing need for IT experts, Berlin has reformed immigration laws to attract talent globally, simplifying the visa application process. Recent tax reforms further aim to make it easier for startups to offer stock options to employees, signalling a commitment to fostering a competitive tech environment.
As Germany strives to reclaim its technological prowess, these strategies mark a pivotal shift in the nation’s approach to innovation and global tech leadership.
