Commission Publishes Study on Data Act Interoperability

The European Commission is advancing the implementation of the EU Data Act by preparing a central Union repository for open specifications and harmonised standards on data processing services. Interoperability is a core objective of the Data Act, particularly to ensure effective switching and portability between services such as cloud and edge computing. Article 35 of the Data Act defines the technical layers and outcomes that interoperability standards must address, with a strong focus on portability, service compatibility, and security.

To support this effort, the Commission commissioned a study conducted by WIK, Decision, and Schuman Associates. The study supports the creation of the Union repository and prepares the publication of the first batch of eligible standards and open specifications. It introduces an evaluation methodology based on the Common Assessment Method for Standards and Specifications (CAMSS), aligned with Regulation (EU) No 1025/2012 and the specific criteria set out in the Data Act. This methodology ensures that listed specifications are open, well-governed, and suitable for EU-wide use.

Using this approach, the study identifies several existing open specifications that already meet the Data Act requirements and could be listed in the repository. It also highlights gaps where new interoperability standards are still needed. Once references to standards or specifications are published in the Union repository, service providers will have twelve months to comply. The study therefore plays a key role in shaping future standardisation efforts and in providing legal certainty for data processing service providers operating in the EU.

Key takeaways

• The Data Act places interoperability at the center of data processing services in the EU
• Article 35 defines what interoperability standards must achieve and which technical layers they cover
• The Commission will publish standards and specifications in a central Union repository
• Providers must comply within twelve months of a standard being listed
• The study introduces an evaluation method based on CAMSS and EU standardisation rules
• Several existing open specifications already meet Data Act requirements
• Gaps remain where new interoperability standards are needed
• The study supports future EU standardisation and enforcement actions