EU Rejects Two-Year Delay Request From Tech Giants, Enforces AI Act Timeline
The European Commission firmly rejects a coalition of over 45 companies demanding a two-year pause on the AI Act, confirming that regulations for general-purpose AI models will take effect in August 2025.
The European Commission flatly rejects a high-profile demand from over 45 tech and industrial giants, including Airbus and Mistral AI, to delay the landmark EU AI Act. A Commission spokesperson confirms there is no pause, grace period, or stop to the clock on the legislation's rollout. This firm decision from Brussels solidifies the original timeline, ensuring that crucial rules for general-purpose AI models take effect in August 2025.
A coalition of top European firms, spearheaded by the EU AI Champions Initiative, sends an open letter warning that unclear and overlapping EU regulations disrupt the balance between innovation and compliance. These companies argue that the absence of the AI Code of Practice leaves businesses in the dark about how to meet upcoming legal standards. They urge the Commission to implement a two-year clock-stop before key obligations enter into force to protect Europe's AI ambitions.
Brussels stands unambiguous in its refusal, with spokesperson Thomas Regnier stating directly that the established legal deadlines will be enforced without any changes. Following the August 2025 rules for general-purpose AI models, additional regulations for high-risk AI systems are scheduled to take effect in August 2026. The Commission's stance signals a strict adherence to the regulatory schedule despite heavy pushback from major industry players.