The latest data stories: Exploring Europe through open data
What open data reveals about AI and supply chains across the EU
During the third quarter of 2026, the European Data Portal published two new data stories. The first was published in July and focuses on artificial intelligence, while the second, published in September, is about supply chains. Using open data, they explored how AI is becoming part of everyday life and how goods move through the transport networks that underpin Europe’s economy.
The first story examined the growing role of artificial intelligence in Europe. From writing emails and generating images to supporting work and learning activities, AI tools are becoming increasingly common among European citizens and businesses. The data revealed particularly strong uptake among younger Europeans, with almost two-thirds of those aged 16 to 24 reporting to have used generative AI tools in the previous three months. Meanwhile, adoption by businesses has more than doubled since 2023, especially in information and communication, professional services and scientific activities. At the same time, public opinion presents a more nuanced picture, with Europeans recognising AI’s benefits for productivity while remaining cautious about its implications for employment.
The second story explores Europe’s supply chains and the networks that move goods across the continent every day. From food and fuel to construction materials and consumer products, supply chains connect factories, ports, warehouses and consumers across Europe. The data showed that sea and road transport account for most freight activity in Europe, while major freight hubs such as the Port of Rotterdam and Frankfurt Airport play an important role in European transport networks. The story also revealed that a small number of product categories account for the largest trade flows moving through Europe’s supply chains, particularly mining and quarrying products, agricultural goods and construction-related goods.
Although the topics differ, both stories demonstrate how open data can help explain developments across Europe. From the growing influence of AI in daily life and business to the vast transport networks moving goods across borders, open data makes these trends more accessible and easier to understand.
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