EU May Pause Parts Of AI Law After Pressure From US And Big Techh2>
The European Commission is considering delaying parts of its b>Artificial Intelligence Actb> following significant pressure from b>US technology companiesb> and the b>American governmentb>. This proposal is part of a broader simplification package expected to be announced on b>November 19b>.p>
The AI Act, which came into force in b>August last yearb>, is recognized as the world’s strictest regulatory framework for artificial intelligence. It aims to govern the utilization and development of AI, particularly in high-risk sectors impacting health, safety, and citizens’ rights. However, most key regulations will only be enforced starting in b>August 2026b>.p>
Discussions with the USh3>
EU officials have engaged in discussions with Washington amidst concerns that stringent regulations could provoke b>US retaliationb>, potentially affecting intelligence and defense cooperation. A senior EU official stated that the bloc has been “engaging” with the Trump administration on modifications to the act and other digital laws.p>
Proposed Changesh3>
A draft reviewed by the Financial Times indicates that Brussels may offer companies utilizing high-risk AI a b>one-year grace periodb> before penalties are enforced. This delay would provide companies additional time to adapt without disrupting the market. The proposal is currently under deliberation within the Commission and among EU member states; thus, details may evolve before a final decision is reached.p>
The delay could also influence the timeline for enforcing fines related to transparency rules. Under the proposed changes, these penalties might not take effect until b>August 2027b>, granting b>AI developersb> and users extra time to comply with the requirements.p>
The draft also seeks to simplify compliance by reducing administrative burdens and centralizing enforcement through a newly established AI office. Supporters argue this could facilitate adherence to the law while maintaining oversight within EU jurisdiction.p>
Reactions from Companies and Lawmakersh3>
Major tech firms, including b>Metab>, have expressed concerns that the AI Act might hinder Europe’s access to advanced tools and services. They argue that stringent regulations could diminish the region’s competitiveness against the US and China.p>
An EU spokesperson confirmed that discussions regarding potential delays to “targeted parts” of the act are ongoing, yet emphasized that the Commission remains committed to its primary objectives. The pause does not imply the abandonment of the law; instead, it signals a potential adjustment in enforcement timelines to allow companies more flexibility.p>
Approval of the proposal will require consent from a majority of EU countries and the b>European Parliamentb>. The final decision is expected to reflect how the EU plans to balance AI regulation against pressures from global powers.p>
Expert Opinionsh3>
Ben Gibson, CEO of Cosmo5 in the UK, commented on the situation, stating: “The EU’s move to reconsider the timing of its AI Act acknowledges that innovation cannot thrive under premature constraints. This technology is still evolving, and allowing space for experimentation is essential for long-term success.”p>
He further noted, “While AI is becoming increasingly integrated into daily life, we are still in a phase where genuine value is discovered through testing rather than adhering strictly to frameworks designed for yesterday’s challenges. Loosening the timeline provides smaller players and startups the opportunity to explore how AI can drive behavioral change.”p>
Gibson’s remarks align with the principles reflected in the b>UK’s new AI labb>, which emphasizes that progress relies on safe and open experimentation. He concluded that if Europe aspires to lead in technology, it must embrace this approach rather than merely regulate it.p>
