https://ec.europa.eu/growth/industry/policy/key-enabling-technologies/description_enKETs comprise micro and nanoelectronics, nanotechnology, industrial biotechnology, advanced materials, photonics, and advanced manufacturing technologies. The 2009 Communication on KETs describes these further.
They provide the basis for innovation in a wide range of industries such as automotive, food, chemicals, electronics, energy, pharmaceuticals, construction, and telecommunications. They can be used in emerging and traditional sectors.
They make steel stronger and more durable; they make cars lighter and safer; and they make a range of other products from medicines and biofuels to mobile devices, more effective and sustainable.
Further applications in other industries are expected to emerge.
Because of their potential to help industry grow, KETs are a priority for European industrial policy. The European Strategy for KETs aims to accelerate the rate of exploitation of KETs in the EU and to reverse the decline in manufacturing to stimulate growth and jobs.
