Executives from tech giants Google and Meta have publicly criticized Europe’s stringent approach to artificial intelligence (AI) regulation, arguing that it stifles innovation and places European companies at a competitive disadvantage globally. Their comments, made at the Techarena conference in Stockholm, Sweden, highlight growing tensions between Big Tech and European policymakers over the EU’s AI Act and other regulatory measures.
Meta’s Director of Public Policy, Chris Yiu, emphasized that Europe’s regulatory framework is often too fragmented or overly restrictive. He pointed to the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) as an example of fragmentation and the AI Act as an instance of overreach. Yiu noted that these regulations delay product launches or force companies to dilute features, ultimately harming European consumers. For instance, Meta’s AI-powered Ray-Ban glasses, which offer features like speech translation and image description for visually impaired users, faced significant delays in Europe due to compliance challenges.
Dorothy Chou, Google DeepMind’s Head of Public Policy, echoed these concerns, highlighting that the EU’s AI Act was drafted before technologies like ChatGPT even existed. She argued that regulating on a timeline that doesn’t align with technological advancements makes it difficult to foster innovation while ensuring responsible AI use. Chou called for policies that create a better investment environment rather than imposing burdensome requirements.
Both companies have ramped up lobbying efforts to soften aspects of the AI Act. Kent Walker, Google’s President of Global Affairs, criticized the EU’s code of practice for general-purpose AI (GPAI) models, calling it a “step in the wrong direction.” Similarly, Meta’s Chief Global Affairs Officer, Joel Kaplan, stated that the company would not sign the code in its current form, citing “unworkable and technically unfeasible” requirements.
The criticism from Google and Meta aligns with broader concerns from the U.S. government and venture capitalists investing in European startups. U.S. Vice President JD Vance recently criticized Europe for focusing too heavily on regulation rather than embracing AI’s growth potential. Meanwhile, venture capitalists have lamented the complex compliance burdens on European tech startups, which they argue stifle innovation and competitiveness.
While the EU’s AI regulations aim to ensure transparency, fairness, and accountability in AI systems, critics argue that the rules must strike a balance between safeguarding public interests and fostering technological advancement. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen whether European policymakers will adjust their approach to address these concerns or maintain their current regulatory trajectory.
The clash between Big Tech and European regulators underscores the challenges of governing rapidly evolving technologies in a globalized economy. As AI continues to transform industries, finding a regulatory framework that promotes innovation while protecting public interests will be crucial for Europe’s future in the tech landscape.
