EU Lags Behind China in AI Adoption, Google Warns of Regulatory Roadblocks

Google Urges EU to Streamline AI Regulations Amid Lagging Adoption BRUSSELS — Google's President of Global Affairs, Kent Walker, called on the European Union to adopt a more streamlined regulatory approach to artificial intelligence (AI) adoption, citing a significant lag behind China and emphasizing the technology's potential to reshape modern life. Speaking at the Competitive Europe Summit in Brussels on October 1, 2025, Walker highlighted the EU's "adoption deficit" in AI, which he attributed to regulatory hurdles. He noted that while European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen had recently stressed the importance of getting AI right, the current approach was hindering innovation. "We need a smarter regulatory approach," Walker said. "The stakes are incredibly high for our continent's future prosperity and security." He emphasized that AI is not just a tool but an invention of a method of invention that will redefine the future of geopolitical leadership. Walker pointed to China as a prime example of how governments can drive AI adoption through strategic investment. The Chinese government has invested heavily in AI research and development, with significant implications for the country's economic and military dominance. The EU's lagging AI adoption is not just an issue of competitiveness but also raises concerns about societal implications. As AI becomes increasingly integrated into various aspects of life, including healthcare, education, and transportation, regulatory frameworks must be put in place to ensure accountability and transparency. Walker's comments come as the EU is grappling with how to balance innovation with regulation. The European Commission has proposed a comprehensive AI strategy that includes guidelines for responsible AI development and deployment. Industry experts agree that Walker's call for a more streamlined regulatory approach is timely. "The EU needs to strike a balance between regulating AI and allowing companies to innovate," said Dr. Maria Rodriguez, an AI researcher at the University of Cambridge. "If we don't get this right, we risk losing our competitive edge in the global market." The current status of AI adoption in the EU remains a topic of concern for policymakers and industry leaders. While some countries, such as Germany and France, have made significant strides in AI research and development, others are struggling to keep pace. As the world continues to navigate the complexities of AI, Walker's warning serves as a reminder that regulatory frameworks must be adapted to meet the changing needs of society. The EU's ability to innovate and adopt AI will play a critical role in determining its future prosperity and security. Background: The European Union has been grappling with how to regulate AI since 2018, when it launched an AI high-level expert group to provide recommendations on responsible AI development and deployment. In 2020, the EU proposed a comprehensive AI strategy that includes guidelines for AI development and deployment. Additional Perspectives: The Chinese government's investment in AI research and development has been significant, with estimates suggesting over $20 billion invested annually. Industry experts warn that regulatory hurdles are not just an issue of competitiveness but also raise concerns about societal implications, including accountability and transparency. Next Developments: The European Commission is expected to unveil its revised AI strategy later this year, which will provide further guidance on responsible AI development and deployment. The EU's ability to adapt its regulatory frameworks to meet the changing needs of society will play a critical role in determining its future prosperity and security. *Reporting by Artificialintelligence-news.*