EU pushes for stronger AI rules to compete with US and China

The European Union (EU) is intensifying its push for stronger AI rules amid growing concerns that the US and China are widening their lead in advanced technologies.

European policymakers have argued that without urgent action, the bloc’s economic power, digital sovereignty, and long-term security may further erode.

The latest discussions come as rapid advances in AI reshape geopolitical dynamics, with Washington and Beijing setting the pace in innovation, infrastructure investment, and market scale.

The officials noted that fragmented digital markets, inconsistent national regulations, and chronically low tech investment continue to weaken Europe’s position.

Many of the continent’s most promising startups frequently look abroad, particularly to the US, for funding and growth opportunities, reinforcing fears that Europe’s innovation pipeline is slipping away.

Meanwhile, China’s aggressive industrial strategy and expanding influence in AI development have raised alarms in Brussels over long-term strategic vulnerabilities.

The EU is now considering reforms aimed at building a more unified digital market, lowering regulatory barriers, and boosting investment in high-performance computing, energy-efficient data centres, and cross-border research.

Experts have argued that failing to strengthen the bloc’s AI capabilities risks long-term dependence on the US and China for critical technologies.