Smart Data opportunities in digital markets

We are seeking views on how new powers granted by the Data (Use and Access) Act 2025 could be used in digital markets to support:

• innovation
• competition
• better outcomes for consumers and business

Smart Data enables the secure, consent-based sharing of customer and business data with authorised third parties. This will allow for the creation of innovative services that benefit consumers and support competition.

Digital markets are central to how individuals and businesses access goods, services, and content online. However, barriers to data portability, limited consumer control, and market concentration can reduce competition and limit innovation. A Smart Data scheme could help address these issues by enabling consumers and businesses to make better use of their data and supporting the development of new data-driven products and services.

This call for evidence will help the government assess whether there is a case for action in this area, and if so, how a scheme might be designed to deliver meaningful outcomes.

Responses to this call for evidence will inform the government’s next steps on the development of Smart Data in digital markets.