Denmark To Lend Key Support To The EU Blockchain Alliance, As It Looks To Reshape Its Logistics Industry
Danish Minister for Industry, Business and Financial Affairs, Brian Mikkelsen, has signed a declaration pledging to a partnership on blockchain development with 22 other European countries. Logistics management is one of the blockchain’s most promising applications. And according to Mikkelsen, Denmark intends to use the technology to manage ship registry—and will make them the first country in the world to do so.
Since last year, Denmark has been making some efforts in integrating the tech into some aspects of their operations. In December, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs launched a study exploring blockchains for development cooperation and humanitarian aid, titled “Hack the Future of Development Aid.” In March, the European Commission posted a press release announcing an “Action Plan” involving blockchain technology for innovating financial services in the region. The Action Plan, according to the European Commission, would help the EU compete as a global hub for fintech using blockchain technology as well as other emerging technologies.
Denmark is already exploring the potential of blockchain technology. As the first country in the world, we will use blockchain technology for registering ships in the Danish registries; Blockchain runs across national borders and a common European cooperation is crucial for future-proof standards and solutions. I am therefore very pleased that we have now signed the declaration.
– Brian Mikkelsen
The primary aim is to make Europe a giant when it comes to harnessing blockchain technology across various sectors and divisions, with EU businesses and investors able to make most of the advantages offered by the Single Market in this fast-moving sector. As a first major deliverable, the Commission is also putting forward new rules that will help crowdfunding platforms to grow across the EU’s single market. The initiative includes the establishment of an EU Fintech Laboratory, and tapping on the EU Blockchain Observatory and Forum for assessing challenges and opportunities, as well as strategies for using the technology.