A determined reaction is emerging from 45 companies, calling for a suspension of the regulation on artificial intelligence. Industry giants such as Total and Carrefour express concerns about the consequences of an overly restrictive regulatory framework. Pressure is mounting for a two-year moratorium to ensure adequate compliance before the laws come into force. Economic actors claim that this situation risks undermining the innovation dynamics essential to European competitiveness.
A Request to Suspend the AI Act
On July 3, forty-five large companies, along with European technology players, requested a two-year pause on the regulation concerning artificial intelligence (AI). Stated in a letter addressed to the European Commission, the collective demands a suspension or a “clock-stop” on the main obligations of the European AI regulation.
Signatories of the Collective
The group, known as the EU AI Champions Initiative, includes heavyweights like Airbus, Axa, Total, BNP Paribas, and Carrefour, as well as digital actors such as Mistral AI, Dassault Systèmes, and Pigment. This diverse coalition highlights competitive issues for European companies in the face of ineffective regulation.
A Call for Reevaluation of Regulations
The signatories of the letter express their concern about regulations perceived as vague and complex, which risk hindering innovation. They argue that these texts could compromise the EU’s ambition to become a leader in the field of AI, thereby weakening the European champions and the sector’s ability to deploy large-scale AI solutions.
Upcoming Obligations of the Regulation
Two major deadlines for AI models are expected. August 2, 2025, marks the commencement of obligations for “general-purpose” AI systems, such as those used for virtual assistants, including ChatGPT and Gemini. These manufacturers will be required to conduct risk assessments and provide technical documentation.
One year later, in the summer of 2026, the requirements for evaluating “high-risk” AI systems will take effect. These systems will intervene in critical areas such as education, healthcare, infrastructure management, and the banking sector.
Concerns Over Regulation
The collective actors argue that the increasing complexity of regulations risks paralyzing technological innovation in Europe. The proliferation of norms, often redundant, could lead to widespread confusion and harm the AI sector, even as initiatives put in place to stimulate the digital market might face significant delays.
International Context and Competition
In a global environment marked by intense competition, Europe must strive to strengthen its potential in AI, while avoiding facing regulatory barriers. A balanced approach between regulation and innovation seems necessary to sustain efforts in emerging tech leaders on the international stage.
Reactions and Future Perspectives
Opinions among experts and business leaders vary regarding the impact of these regulations. Some argue that strict rules are necessary to ensure ethical and responsible AI development, while others worry about a slowdown that could benefit rivals in the global market.
The debate surrounding the application of the AI Act continues to fuel discussions within European institutions and among companies. Questions remain regarding the future of European competitiveness in this ever-evolving sector.
To delve deeper into the impacts and innovations related to AI, consult articles on recent technological advancements: Launch of the Consortium on the Impact of Generative AI, AI and 3D Printed Objects, The Future of Research with Google and AI, Analysis of the Gmail Update Driven by AI, as well as the impact of AI chips from Broadcom on the market: The Case of Broadcom and Its Performance.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Pause Requested by 45 Companies Regarding the AI Act
Why did 45 European companies request a pause in the implementation of the AI Act?
These companies believe that the regulations of the new AI Act jeopardize their competitiveness and call for a suspension of certain obligations to allow for the development of technical standards and compliance guides.
What are the consequences of a two-year pause on the implementation of the AI Act?
If a pause is decided, it would delay the enforcement of specific obligations concerning general-purpose and high-risk AI models, giving companies more time to comply with regulations.
What types of companies signed the open letter requesting this pause?
The letter was signed by a mix of companies, including large groups like Axa, Airbus, and Total, as well as tech start-ups such as Mistral AI and Pigment.
What specific obligations of AI model manufacturers are affected by the pause request?
The obligations involved include conducting risk assessments and providing technical documentation on generative AI models, as well as on AI systems deemed high-risk in various sectors.
What impact could this pause have on AI innovation in Europe?
Companies fear that early and vague regulations could hinder the emergence of European champions in AI, thereby limiting the innovation necessary to compete in the global market.
How has the European Union historically balanced regulation and innovation before this situation?
The EU has traditionally succeeded in imposing regulations while supporting innovation, but companies believe that the growing complexity of current regulation disrupts this balance.
What are the main concerns of companies regarding the deadlines of the AI Act?
Companies are worried that the deadlines of 2025 and 2026 for implementing risk assessment obligations are too close together and do not allow enough time for adequate compliance.
