Digitalisation and data policy

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Data and the ability to exploit data are at the heart of digitalisation.

Finland needs to set a high bar for data policy targets and the realisation of these targets. Copyright, platforms and the regulation of electronic communication are significant issues for the digitalisation of society as a whole. Regulations must create balanced and functional market structures to enable the economy to grow.

An active data policy can take us to the peak of digitalisation

To reach the targets:

  • We must accelerate legislation that enhances the use of data and creates new services and continue to repeal regulations that impede digitalisation. 
  • The government must make an active data policy in order for Finland to capitalise on the opportunities for growth in areas such as artificial intelligence. The government programme pledges to deepen the leadership of data policy. As no clear minister has been appointed to take charge of data policy, we propose that the coordination of data policy be delegated to a State Secretary and/or that a ministerial group be established for data policy.
  • Enabling the real-time economy. The real-time economy will significantly enhance economic activity, reduce the administrative burden, and lay the foundations for real-time taxation. In combination with the Incomes Register, it will also form the basis for reforming the social benefits system. During this government’s term in office, regulatory changes will be enacted to obligate the widespread introduction of structured electronic invoices and receipts. At the same time, a functional market structure will be created for transmitting these electronic documents, along with the prerequisites for entirely digital companies. The introduction of electronic receipts and electronic invoices alone is expected to give rise to annual savings of EUR 300 billion in the EU.
  • Enhancing the utilisation of open data using interface services (APIs). We are transitioning from opening up raw data towards interface services that are easier for developers in order to increase the impact of data. The Digital and Population Data Services Agency is reinforcing the development of interface services as part of the avoindata.fi service.
  • Promoting the rapid introduction of artificial intelligence solutions and collaboration between the public and private sectors. The results of the “Age of Artificial Intelligence” programme should be put to use as the basis for decision-making. More money should be invested in RDI for artificial intelligence. Quick action must be taken to exploit artificial intelligence.
  • Growth from the data economy. The electricity tax for data centres must be reduced to the level in Sweden – the minimum level permitted in the EU – irrespective of size. The data cable in the Northeast Passage must be promoted as an aspect of improving the operating conditions for data centre businesses.

 

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