Estonian parliament supports unified regulation for space activities in the EU

TALLINN - On Friday, the European Union Affairs Committee of the Riigikogu confirmed its position on an initiative aimed at supporting an independent single market for the space sector within the European Union.

The committee's chairman, Peeter Tali, noted that the European Union currently lacks a unified regulation for space activities, causing member states to act independently. "Space-related activity is growing worldwide due to the increasing demand for space-based data and services," Tali said. "To enhance the competitiveness of the European space sector, it's crucial to agree on common rules. A unified legal framework will enable member states to cooperate effectively and could create new opportunities for Estonian providers of cybersecurity and digital solutions."

The confirmed position states that Estonia supports the objectives of the EU Space Regulation to create a unified and coherent legal framework that will strengthen the competitiveness of the European space sector and ensure safe, secure, and sustainable space activities. Estonia also backs the European Union's ambition to enhance international cooperation and diplomacy in the space domain.

The explanatory memorandum notes that the initiative is the first comprehensive package of space-related measures at the EU level. The initiative aims to harmonize requirements for space activities and establish uniform licensing procedures across the EU, creating a clearer legal environment for companies involved in space services and products, regardless of their country of origin.

Approximately 150 companies are active in the space sector in Estonia. More than 60 Estonian companies and research institutions have participated in European Space Agency (ESA) procurements. The EU Space Regulation is estimated to currently affect 10 to 15 entities in Estonia, including satellite technology developers, remote sensing application creators, software developers, cybersecurity firms, and research and educational institutions.

Minister of Economic Affairs and Industry Erkki Keldo presented the government's positions on the EU Space Regulation and the communication on the European space economy vision during the session. The committee confirmed the positions in line with the opinion of the Economic Affairs Committee.