Europe could break free from dependence on American and Chinese technology by embracing open-source artificial intelligence, according to Alibaba Chairman Joe Tsai.
Tsai delivered this message at the Wave by Vento conference in Turin, Italy, where he urged European businesses to adopt AI models they can modify and operate using their own data. The continent boasts strong research capabilities and a mature industrial base, both critical assets for AI advancement.
Yet significant hurdles remain. Europe lacks sufficient data centres, specialised chips, and reliable power infrastructure to train and run sophisticated AI systems locally. Tsai warned that without major investment in these areas, European firms will keep relying on foreign technology vendors.
The stakes go beyond convenience. Political shifts or new government restrictions could disrupt access to technology controlled by other nations. Countries need sovereignty over the systems powering their essential business operations and public services, Tsai argued.
Open-source models offer a path forward. Developers gain flexibility to customise tools for specific applications and deploy them on their own infrastructure. Meanwhile, sectors like manufacturing, automotive production, and engineering generate vast troves of specialised data. That information could train AI systems, though many companies hesitate to hand sensitive data to providers running closed models.
Chinese AI firms increasingly release open-source frameworks, contrasting with the proprietary systems favoured by major US technology companies. These open alternatives let developers build new applications on existing technology, making AI more accessible to businesses of all sizes.
Alibaba practices what Tsai preaches. Its Qwen AI models remain available to developers, while its cloud computing services support customers running AI workloads.
European researchers already populate leading US AI laboratories. Retaining more of that talent locally could strengthen the region’s position. Governments and private companies must collaborate on data centre construction, research funding, and workforce development.
Tsai’s vision: Europe need not build every technology from scratch. By combining open-source AI, expanded computing capacity, and industrial data expertise, the region could achieve greater technological independence and control over its digital future.
