Diverging Data Strategies of the United States, China, and the EU in the Data Cold War Era

In the modern digital era, data has emerged as a vital resource that influences every aspect of the global economy, society, politics, and culture. This study explores the emergence of the “Data Cold War,” marked by intensified global competition over data control and protection. The United States, China, and the European Union are each adopting unique data strategies-namely data liberalism, digital protectionism, and data mutualism-which are transforming the international landscape and influencing global economic and political dynamics. While the U.S. promotes free data flow and market-driven innovation, it faces challenges with inconsistent personal data protection and diminishing international trust. China enforces strong state-led data governance to reinforce data sovereignty, leading to conflicts with international trade norms and hindering sustainable innovation. The EU seeks to balance personal data protection with data utilization through robust regulations like the GDPR but struggles with concerns that strict rules may impede innovation, especially among small and mediumsized enterprises (SMEs). This study highlights the importance of establishing global data governance by creating shared principles and standards that enable the free flow of data while safeguarding data sovereignty and protecting personal information. Strengthening international cooperation and building trust-based multilateral dialogue are essential for reaching consensus on data governance. Such efforts offer opportunities to achieve sustainable development of the global digital economy by collaboratively balancing data sovereignty, personal data protection, and data mobility.