EU Industry Chief Calls for Unified Tech Regulations Between US and Europe

Thierry Breton, the European Union’s industry chief, has urged the United States to implement new technology regulations, advocating for a cohesive digital marketplace that spans both regions. Speaking at the Viva Technology conference in Paris, Breton emphasized the necessity for regulatory alignment to address the challenges posed by rapidly advancing technologies.

“The goal should be shared digital regulation. A global digital market would be ideal, encompassing both the EU and the U.S.,” Breton stated in a report by Reuters. His comments highlight the EU’s leadership in tech regulation, having enacted robust legislation like the Digital Markets Act (DMA) and the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Act. These laws target the practices of major tech firms such as Google and Meta to promote fair competition and responsible AI use.

In contrast, the United States has largely relied on existing laws to regulate tech giants. In March, the Department of Justice filed an antitrust lawsuit against Apple, accusing the company of monopolistic practices. Apple has denied these allegations and is seeking to have the lawsuit dismissed.

Read more: Revising the Competition Law Rulebook for Digital Markets in Europe: An Update

Breton’s appeal comes at a crucial time as concerns about the risks of AI technologies grow. Last year, President Joe Biden issued several executive orders aimed at AI safety, requiring developers to perform safety tests and introducing measures to combat deepfake images.

“It’s critical that we align our regulatory efforts now,” Breton added. “The U.S. and Europe share the same values, and it would be incredible to achieve regulatory harmony.” His call for unified regulations reflects a broader push for international cooperation to create a safer and more integrated digital marketplace.

The Viva Technology conference, a significant event for tech industry leaders and policymakers, provided a platform for Breton’s remarks. This year’s conference featured prominent figures like former Google CEO Eric Schmidt and former U.S. climate envoy John Kerry, underlining its importance in shaping future tech policies.

Source: Reuters