The European Commission has revealed plans to created 2.5 million new jobs over eight years from increasing the uptake of cloud computing.

Along with 2.5 million jobs the strategy also aims to increase GDP by €160 billion by 2020.

The EC pointed to the economic advantages of cloud computing but highlighted the absence of clear guidelines set by governments and industries. The new strategy will help to shape such guidelines according to the EU.

EC vice-president Neelie Kroes, said: “Cloud computing is a game-changer for our economy. Without EU action, we will stay stuck in national fortresses and miss out on billions in economic gains”.