EU Lags Behind China in AI Adoption: Google Urges Regulatory Overhaul

Google's Walker Urges EU to Revamp AI Regulations Amid China Competition At the Competitive Europe Summit in Brussels on October 1, 2025, Google's President of Global Affairs, Kent Walker, called for a more streamlined regulatory approach to boost artificial intelligence (AI) adoption in the European Union. The move comes as the region lags behind China in embracing AI technology. Walker emphasized that AI is not just a tool but "an invention of a method of invention" that will redefine modern life and shape global leadership. He noted that the stakes are high for Europe's future prosperity and security, citing intense geopolitical competition and government investment in AI by rival nations. "We need to get this right," Walker said, referencing European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen's recent assertion that getting AI right is essential. "We can't afford to fall behind." Walker highlighted a concerning adoption deficit in the EU, where AI development and deployment are hindered by complex regulatory frameworks. This contrasts with China, which has aggressively invested in AI research and development. "The EU needs to take a more forward-thinking approach to regulation," Walker said. "We need to create an environment that encourages innovation and investment in AI." The Competitive Europe Summit brought together policymakers, business leaders, and experts to discuss the future of European competitiveness. The event highlighted the need for a coordinated effort to address the challenges posed by emerging technologies like AI. AI adoption has been slow in the EU due to concerns over data protection, bias, and accountability. While the region has implemented several regulations aimed at mitigating these risks, critics argue that they are too restrictive and hinder innovation. Walker's comments come as Google continues to push for more permissive regulatory environments. The company has faced criticism from some quarters for its own handling of AI-related issues, including concerns over bias in facial recognition technology. The EU's approach to AI regulation is currently under review, with several proposals on the table. Walker's remarks are likely to influence the debate and may signal a shift towards more industry-friendly regulations. As the global AI landscape continues to evolve, Europe faces increasing pressure to catch up with China and other nations. The stakes are high, and policymakers will need to strike a balance between protecting citizens' interests and fostering innovation in this critical area of technology. Background The European Union has been slow to adopt AI due to concerns over data protection, bias, and accountability. While the region has implemented several regulations aimed at mitigating these risks, critics argue that they are too restrictive and hinder innovation. Current Status The EU's approach to AI regulation is currently under review, with several proposals on the table. Walker's remarks are likely to influence the debate and may signal a shift towards more industry-friendly regulations. Next Developments As the global AI landscape continues to evolve, Europe faces increasing pressure to catch up with China and other nations. Policymakers will need to strike a balance between protecting citizens' interests and fostering innovation in this critical area of technology. *Reporting by Artificialintelligence-news.*