The EU Artificial Intelligence Act (AI Act) officially took effect on August 1, with a phased rollout. On the same day, the EU AI Office launched the AI Pact, urging early voluntary compliance. The AI Pact is optional. It offers collaboration with the Commission and support to meet the requirements and obligations of the AI Act. To enrol your company in the AI Pact initiative, please click here.
The AI Act will be fully in effect by August 2, 2026. So what key milestones should you be aware of:
February 2, 2025: Ban on AI systems with unacceptable risk goes into effect.
August 2, 2025:
February 2, 2026: Introduction of post-market monitoring requirements.
August 2, 2026:
August 2, 2027: Compliance for high-risk AI systems used as safety components or requiring third-party assessments.
By the end of 2030: Compliance for AI systems in large-scale EU IT infrastructures, such as the Schengen Information System.
The AI Act applies to all operators in the AI value chain, including:
It also covers individuals in the EU affected by AI systems, from the perspective of having and exercising rights under the law.
When evaluating your organisation’s role under the AI Act, keep in mind:
The AI Act will apply to both public and private entities within and outside the EU, provided the AI system is marketed in the Union or affects individuals within the EU. However, there are certain exemptions to the regulation:
Like the GDPR, the AI Act has a broad reach and it affects operators inside and outside the EU. There are significant fines for non-compliance. As it’s likely to become the global standard for AI regulation, understanding its requirements early is crucial for all organisations.
As of July 1 2024, the EU-Japan data transfer agreement is officially in effect. This agreement designates Japan as a “safe” country for data transfers, meaning that businesses can now transfer personal data between the EU and Japan without needing additional safeguards.
This development aims to simplify and enhance trade relations. For more details, click here.
There is a growing global emphasis on protecting children’s online safety:
These initiatives mark a significant step towards creating a safer online environment for children. It’s about time!