BELGIUM – Unlocking the Future: How can new technologies drive productivity and economic growth for everyone?

Our “2024 Voices – Citizens Speak Up!” study, which captures the opinions of over 2,000 citizens across Europe, including Belgium, reveals a concern: how to support and incentivise SMEs to remain in Europe and sustain the continent’s competitiveness.

To address this issue, we hosted a panel discussion moderated by Merle Becker that featured:

• Bruno Tobback, MEP, Socialists and Democrats Group in the European Parliament

• Joëlle Jouret, Government Affairs & Public Policy Manager, Google

• Jan Feyaerts, Head of Secretariat, ISPA Belgium

The panel explored:

• Closing the Tech Gap: How can Europe modernise its infrastructure to attract and retain competitive businesses?

Europe risks falling behind without a long-term investment strategy, with electricity grids playing the same crucial role today as highways did in the past, as the backbone of a green and digital economy. To attract private investment in green technologies, policymakers need to provide stability.

Concerns also extend to digital infrastructure, particularly in rural areas where proper broadband and 5G coverage remain lacking. Public-private partnerships could help bridge the gap, but fragmented telecom regulations create additional obstacles.

A more harmonised approach across the EU could remove such barriers and foster a more competitive digital market. Clear regulations would provide the predictability needed for investment and innovation to thrive.

• Supporting SMEs: What strategies and incentives are needed to prevent SMEs from relocating overseas and to boost their role in driving Europe’s economy?

SMEs make up 99% of businesses in Europe and employ two thirds of people in Belgium. Yet, many struggle with digital adoption and complex regulations, said Jan Fayette. Innovative initiatives could help SMEs with training in AI, cybersecurity, and automation, but bureaucratic obstacles and varying national regulations hinder their growth.

EU funding applications are overly complex, favouring large companies with dedicated legal teams. Regulation should be smarter to cut red tape for small businesses. While companies like Google offer SMEs training programmes, businesses need regulatory stability to confidently invest in new technologies.

• Harnessing AI: How do we leverage AI to fuel growth while addressing concerns around job displacement and workforce reskilling?

Joëlle Jouret shared her three-step approach:

– Teach AI in schools to prepare youth for future jobs

– Upskill workers to enhance productivity with AI

– Support career transitions in changing industries

Bruno Tobback cautioned against blind trust in AI, warning of a “computer says no” world. He praised Europe’s leadership in AI regulation to ensure technology serves people.

Co-funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Commission. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.