- Macron expresses worries about Big Tech dominance and its impact on European innovation.
- He prefers European tech companies to grow independently rather than be acquired.
- Macron advocates for fostering a vibrant European tech ecosystem.
French President Emmanuel Macron has voiced concerns about the increasing dominance of Big Tech companies and their potential effects on European innovation. In an interview with CNBC, Macron highlighted the importance of European tech independence amidst growing acquisitions by major tech firms.
Macron emphasized Europe’s need to catch up with the US in terms of tech innovation and economic growth, attributing the lag to a “lack of innovation” in the tech sector. While acknowledging the success of homegrown companies like Mistral AI, Macron expressed a preference for them to remain independent and thrive on their own.
The President cautioned against a future where European tech landscape is dominated solely by Chinese and American giants, warning that unchecked acquisitions could stifle innovation in the region. He stressed the importance of nurturing a robust European tech ecosystem, fostering an environment where European companies can compete globally and thrive independently.
