Dozens of chief executives from major European corporations—including Airbus, BNP Paribas, Carrefour, Lufthansa, Mercedes-Benz, TotalEnergies, Philips, and ASML—have published an open letter formally asking the European Commission to delay implementation of critical elements of the EU´s Artificial Intelligence Act for two years. The signatories warn that introducing the new regulatory framework on schedule would hinder European innovation and downplay the bloc´s competitiveness compared to the United States and China.
Announced on July 3, the letter criticizes aspects of the Artificial Intelligence Act as ´unclear, overlapping, and increasingly complex.´ These executives, representing diverse industry sectors with massive workforces, argue the current regulatory proposals could stall the rapid technological adoption and innovation needed to keep Europe competitive in the global Artificial Intelligence race. They specifically highlight concerns over imminent compliance deadlines, particularly for general-purpose Artificial Intelligence models set to take effect in August 2025 and rules for high-risk Artificial Intelligence systems by August 2027.
The CEO coalition calls for not only a two-year postponement but also a major simplification of the regulatory architecture itself. They recommend phasing implementation of the legislation with a focus on drafting quality regulations rather than speed, allowing adequate time for industry adaptation and reflection. The CEOs believe this approach would reassure global investors and foster a more innovation-friendly ecosystem. Their public appeal has gained traction with support from technology firms across international borders, as well as from non-EU businesses and governments. This growing pressure underscores the struggle EU policymakers face: how to balance responsible oversight of Artificial Intelligence with a policy environment that does not dampen European tech leadership or investment. The outcome of this debate is certain to influence Europe´s Artificial Intelligence sector trajectory and its ability to shape global standards in the years ahead.
