EU Weighs Delay in AI Act Implementation Amid Pressure from US and Tech Giants

The European Commission is considering delaying key provisions of the EU’s landmark Artificial Intelligence Act following mounting pressure from large technology companies and the U.S. administration under Donald Trump. The move aims to give businesses more time to adapt to new regulatory requirements and avoid potential disruptions to innovation.
The AI Act, which became law in August 2024, is the world’s first comprehensive regulation governing artificial intelligence. However, many of its most stringent obligations—particularly those related to high-risk AI systems that could affect health, safety, or fundamental rights—are not yet in effect. Under current plans, these rules are scheduled to apply in 2026 or later, with penalties for violations possibly delayed until 2027 to allow companies additional time for compliance.
Brussels is also reviewing proposals to make monitoring requirements for high-risk AI systems more flexible. Developers could be allowed to follow less prescriptive guidance, reducing the regulatory burden on emerging AI technologies. Officials emphasized that no final decision has been made and that the EU “remains fully committed” to the Act’s core objectives.
Meanwhile, several major European firms, including Airbus and Mercedes-Benz, have called for a two-year pause to ensure smoother implementation. They argue that a delay would demonstrate the EU’s commitment to maintaining competitiveness while ensuring responsible oversight of AI. However, lawmakers involved in drafting the legislation warned that any postponement could undermine legal certainty and public trust.