Overview of AI Policy in 15 Jurisdictions
The landscape of artificial intelligence (AI) regulation is rapidly evolving across the globe, with jurisdictions adopting varying approaches to harness the benefits of AI while addressing ethical concerns and societal implications. This study provides insights into the AI policies of 15 different regions, highlighting their regulatory frameworks, key initiatives, and challenges faced in implementing responsible AI practices.
1. China
Summary: China stands as a global leader in AI, propelled by substantial state investment and a vast technology ecosystem. The absence of a singular AI law has led to a multilayered regulatory framework encompassing data protection, copyright, and AI-specific provisions.
AI Landscape:
- The New Generation AI Development Plan (2017) sets out China’s ambition to become a global AI leader by 2030.
- The Global AI Governance Initiative (2023) promotes international cooperation in shaping AI governance.
- Oversight is primarily managed by the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) alongside various ministries.
- Major tech firms like Alibaba and Baidu are at the forefront of AI development, despite restrictions on certain foreign models.
China’s AI regulations also focus on data protection, notably through the Personal Information Protection Law (PIPL), which parallels the EU’s GDPR but offers different provisions regarding public domain data.
2. Australia
Summary: Australia employs a principles-based approach to AI governance, combining existing laws with voluntary standards to foster innovation and public trust.
AI Landscape:
- The Digital Transformation Agency (DTA) coordinates cross-government AI policies.
- Proposed mandatory guardrails aim to regulate high-risk AI applications.
- The Voluntary AI Safety Standard (2024) introduces accountability and transparency measures.
Australia’s existing Privacy Act (1988) sets the legal baseline for AI-related personal data handling, emphasizing consent and transparency.
3. Switzerland
Summary: Switzerland adopts a sector-focused, technology-neutral approach to AI regulation, relying on strong data protection laws without a single overarching AI law.
AI Landscape:
- The Federal Data Protection and Information Commissioner (FDPIC) oversees privacy concerns.
- The Strategy on Artificial Intelligence (2020) emphasizes human oversight and data governance.
Switzerland’s Revised Federal Act on Data Protection (FADP) further reinforces obligations related to automated decision-making.
4. Türkiye
Summary: Türkiye aims to become a regional AI hub, driven by industrial applications and a growing tech workforce, while currently lacking a comprehensive AI law.
AI Landscape:
- The Draft AI Bill (2024) proposes guiding principles on safety and transparency.
- Sectoral legislation, including the Law on the Protection of Personal Data, informs AI practices.
Türkiye’s National Artificial Intelligence Strategy (2021–2025) outlines a roadmap for talent development and ethical frameworks.
5. Mexico
Summary: Mexico’s AI regulation lacks a unified framework, relying instead on sectoral legislation and the 2018 National AI Strategy for ethical AI adoption.
AI Landscape:
- The Federal Law on the Protection of Personal Data mandates consent and transparency for AI-driven data handling.
While public sector AI integration is relatively high, private sector adoption faces challenges due to limited R&D investment.
6. Indonesia
Summary: Indonesia currently has no overarching AI law, but the forthcoming AI regulation from the Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs aims to provide a structured framework.
AI Landscape:
- The Personal Data Protection Law (2022) establishes legal foundations for AI-related data processing.
- The Stranas KA (2020–2045) outlines a roadmap for ethical AI development and local capacity building.
Strategic planning aims to leverage AI for national development across various sectors, including healthcare and education.
7. Egypt
Summary: Egypt’s AI governance is guided by the National AI Strategy (2020) and the Personal Data Protection Law (2020), providing a framework for responsible AI use.
AI Landscape:
- The updated 2025–2030 National AI Strategy focuses on inclusive AI and talent development.
AI applications are being piloted in healthcare and agriculture, supported by oversight from the Data Protection Authority.
8. Malaysia
Summary: Malaysia seeks to become a regional AI leader through its Artificial Intelligence Roadmap (2021–2025) and the National Guidelines on AI Governance and Ethics (2024).
AI Landscape:
- The Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA) 2010 governs personal data handling by AI systems.
The establishment of the National AI Office centralizes AI policy coordination in Malaysia.
9. Nigeria
Summary: In Nigeria, the Data Protection Act (NDPA) provides a foundation for AI-related data processing, though no singular AI law exists.
AI Landscape:
- Various ministries oversee AI policy, including the Federal Ministry of Communications.
Nigeria emphasizes responsible AI adoption, highlighted by recent guidelines for using AI in the legal profession.
10. Kenya
Summary: Kenya’s AI framework is shaped by the Data Protection Act (2019) and various sector-specific guidelines, although no comprehensive AI law is in place.
AI Landscape:
- The National Artificial Intelligence Strategy (2025-2030) aims to promote ethical and inclusive AI across key sectors.
Kenya’s efforts focus on enhancing public services through AI technologies.
11. Argentina
Summary: Argentina’s AI governance relies on the Data Protection Law No. 25.326 and the National AI Plan to guide ethical AI adoption.
AI Landscape:
- The Recommendations for Trustworthy Artificial Intelligence (2023) foster responsible AI use in the public sector.
Argentina’s government supports AI research and pilot programs for practical applications.
12. Qatar
Summary: Qatar’s AI policy is framed by the Law No. 13 of 2016 and the National AI Strategy for Qatar (2019), focusing on ethical AI applications.
AI Landscape:
- The Compliance and Data Protection Department ensures adherence to data privacy regulations in AI.
Qatar aims to leverage AI for economic growth and infrastructure development.
13. Pakistan
Summary: Pakistan’s AI policy is shaped by the Digital Pakistan Policy and the Draft National Artificial Intelligence Policy (2023), focusing on responsible AI use.
AI Landscape:
- The Personal Data Protection Bill seeks to establish oversight for AI-driven data processing.
Legislative initiatives are evolving to ensure ethical AI deployment in various sectors.
14. Vietnam
Summary: Vietnam’s AI policy is guided by the Law on Cyberinformation Security (2015) and the National Strategy on AI, aiming for ethical AI development.
AI Landscape:
- The government promotes AI education and R&D through university collaborations.
Despite the absence of comprehensive legislation, Vietnam is pursuing partnerships for capacity development in AI.
15. Russia
Summary: Russia’s AI governance is characterized by multiple policies, including the National AI Development Strategy (2019–2030) and the National Digital Economy Programme.
AI Landscape:
- New regulations mandate liability insurance for developers within experimental legal regimes (ELRs).
Russia is advancing AI in critical sectors, balancing innovation with regulatory oversight.
In conclusion, the global AI policy landscape reflects a diverse range of approaches tailored to regional needs and challenges. As jurisdictions navigate the complexities of AI governance, the emphasis on ethical considerations, public trust, and international cooperation will be crucial for fostering sustainable AI development.
