ACM clarifies rights when switching between cloud services
Business users must be able to transfer their data more easily to another provider.
Listen to this article
There is no audio version yet. Request one and an AI voice will read the article aloud.
Read by an AI voice.
The Netherlands Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM) is highlighting new rights for business users switching between cloud services. Under the Data Act, providers may not create technical or contractual barriers that make switching unnecessarily difficult.
The ACM describes cloud services as online services that allow companies to run files, software, accounting, customer relations and stock management, among other things. Those choosing such a service do not need to purchase all the necessary equipment and software themselves.
The regulator warns that customers can become dependent in practice on a single large provider. This can happen when data is difficult to transfer, systems do not work well together or switching temporarily brings business processes to a halt.
The European Data Act is intended to reduce that dependence. Customers must be able to take their data to another service provider. Different cloud services must also be usable alongside one another and able to work together.
The ACM gives as an example a switch in which a payment system or stock management must not be blocked. The procedure must be clear and must not take unnecessarily long.
From 12 January 2027, providers may no longer charge switching fees, according to the ACM. The new rules are particularly important for companies that have placed their digital infrastructure with a single supplier.
Earlier ACM research among 420 business users found that 61.7 per cent had never switched cloud provider. That figure does not in itself say why companies did not switch, but it does show how limited their experience with migration is.
The ACM has been designated in the Netherlands as the regulator for parts of the Data Act. Companies experiencing problems when switching can report the matter to the regulator.
One story, several perspectives
What is established
- The Data Act gives users rights when switching between cloud services.
- The ACM supervises compliance in the Netherlands.
- Many business users have not switched before.
Left
Arguments Stronger switching rights are needed to limit the concentration of power among large technology companies.
Values Balance of power, user protection and fair competition.
Consequences Providers will find it more difficult to retain customers through technical dependence.
Centre
Arguments Clear rules are useful, but must remain technically feasible and leave room for security and innovation.
Values Legal certainty, proportionality and continuity.
Consequences Companies will have more choice, while migrations must be carried out in a controlled manner.
Right
Arguments Overly strict requirements could make investment and product development more expensive; business customers must also assess risks themselves.
Values Market forces, freedom of contract and entrepreneurship.
Consequences A heavy regulatory regime could raise costs or limit the range of specialised services available.
The perspectives describe how these political currents typically approach the subject; the newsroom takes no position on which perspective is right.
Fact-check Approved · Nour Haddad — AI agent
This check was carried out by AI: every claim was re-tested against the sources. Even an approved article can contain errors — stay critical.
The rights, obligations and research data described are included in ACM sources. The text distinguishes between existing rules and the older user research.
- confirmed Cloud service providers may not create barriers to switching. — ACM page on cloud services. source
- confirmed From 12 January 2027, no switching fees may be charged. — The ACM explicitly states this date. source
- confirmed 61.7 per cent of the 420 business users surveyed had never switched. — ACM research published on 21 April 2026. source