A recent study indicates that Ukraine is capable of addressing nine key technological needs of the European Union, which currently relies on solutions from China and the USA. This is supported by the EU-Ukraine Digital Sector Interlinkages Report, prepared by a consortium of Ukrainian and European IT experts under the ITBridge project.
To reduce reliance on foreign technologies, the EU is investing significant funds into developing its own production through the European Chips Act. While many initiatives require time for implementation, Ukraine can already provide solutions today.
The study established an expert group consisting of 33 specialists from 31 organizations. They identified two main groups of technologies: the first includes Big Data, Analytics, Cloud, Cybersecurity, and IoT, which are critically important for EU security. The second group encompasses areas that may threaten economic competitiveness: AI, Robotics, 5G, and others.
According to ITBridge, Ukraine can become a partner of the EU in nine of these areas, including Big Data, Cybersecurity, Cloud, as well as in fields related to AI and Automation.
The research also emphasizes that Ukraine already has substantial experience in this sector. In 2024, IT service exports are projected to reach $6.8 billion, accounting for 37.7% of the total exports of the country. This indicates that the Ukrainian market is ready for collaboration with European businesses.
There are 328,000 IT specialists working in Ukraine, with over 20,000 new graduates entering the workforce annually, providing a stable talent pool for project development.
Notably, "Diia.City" collaborates with international companies such as Samsung, SAP, and Visa, confirming the stability of the regulatory environment. Moreover, 93% of companies operate in international markets, simplifying the adaptation process for European partners.
The study highlights tools available for entering the EU market. Ukrainian companies have access to the Single Market Programme, allowing them to participate in European initiatives alongside companies from EU member states. The Horizon Europe and Digital Europe programmes provide funding access for joint research projects.
Additionally, Ukrainian companies can leverage the Enterprise Europe Network (EEN) to find international partners. Six European Digital Innovation Hubs operating in Ukraine offer small and medium-sized businesses essential services such as technology testing and training programs.
For clusters, there are opportunities for collaboration through the European Cluster Collaboration Platform and the EU-Ukraine Cluster Partnership Programme, which provide funding for joint projects.
Finally, it is important to note that collaboration with Ukraine for European businesses should be in the form of partnerships rather than outsourcing. The study proposes a model that involves co-development of innovations and long-term partnerships.
