Border Security Market Assessment - European Union

More Investment on Border Security by the EU States Drives the Border Security Market

Rising unauthorised immigration and illegal drug trafficking at the EU borders have impelled the member states to invest further in safeguarding their borders. The high investments in procuring advanced technology security and IT-based systems will boost the border security market. "Heightened terrorist threats and increasing illegal immigration from South American and North African countries into the EU has impelled member states and the European Commission (EC) to invest in hi-tech systems to safeguard their borders," says the analyst of this research. "Government spending on border control and surveillance is expected to rise, creating new opportunities for information technology (IT) and security system manufacturers." Biometric systems that are evolving as the standard technology for border control will continue to drive this market. Multimodal biometrics is in the developmental stage. It ensures flexibility and authenticity and is anticipated to dominate the future.

However, recovery from the current economic slump is expected to be slow, resulting in budgetary constraints. Delays in commissioning new civil security projects are increasing the sales cycle. "The financial crisis and intensifying competition is adding to the pricing pressure on suppliers," explains the analyst. "Although prices have declined considerably, cost continues to be a challenge for vendors."

Implementation of hi-tech projects like the visa information system (VIS), bio development (BIODEV), Schengen information system II (SIS-II), Euroborders and numerous other projects initiated by the individual member nations will further initiate growth in this market. "Biometric systems are experiencing wider adoption due to their reliability and convenience," concludes the analyst. "However, companies and biometric associations should address the fear of data misuse and centralise information to gain end-user confidence."

Market Sectors

Expert Frost & Sullivan analysts thoroughly examine the following market sectors in this research:

• Surveillance systems
• Screening and detection systems
• Biometric systems