Google Warns EU's Sluggish AI Adoption Puts It Behind China Amid Regulatory Hurdles
In a stark warning to European policymakers, Google's President of Global Affairs, Kent Walker, has urged the EU to increase AI adoption through a smarter regulatory approach amid increasing competition from China. According to Walker, the EU's slow adoption rate is putting it at a disadvantage in the global market, particularly against China, where government investment and regulatory support have fueled widespread integration of AI across its economy.
The EU's lagging adoption rate is estimated to be around 14%, compared to China's 83% usage of generative AI. Walker made these remarks at the Competitive Europe Summit in Brussels on October 1, 2025. "AI is an invention of a method of invention which will reshape nearly every aspect of modern life and define the future of geopolitical leadership," Walker emphasized.
The disparity between EU and Chinese AI adoption rates has significant implications for global competitiveness. According to experts, China's aggressive investment in AI research and development has enabled it to leapfrog ahead of other nations. "China's government support for AI innovation has created a virtuous cycle of investment and growth, while the EU's regulatory hurdles have stifled similar progress," said Dr. Maria Rodriguez, an expert on AI policy at the European University Institute.
Walker's call to action comes as the EU grapples with its own regulatory framework for AI. The bloc is currently reviewing its AI strategy, which aims to promote innovation and ensure responsible use of AI technologies. However, critics argue that the current approach is too restrictive, hindering the development of new AI applications.
To address this challenge, Walker proposed a more forward-thinking approach to regulation, one that balances safety and security concerns with the need for innovation and growth. "We need to adopt a regulatory framework that encourages experimentation and investment in AI research and development," he said. "This will require policymakers to think creatively about how to balance competing interests and create an environment conducive to innovation."
The EU's response to Walker's warning remains uncertain, but experts predict that the bloc will need to take bold action to close the gap with China. As one industry insider noted, "The EU cannot afford to fall further behind in AI adoption. It needs to adopt a more proactive approach to regulation and investment if it wants to maintain its global competitiveness."
In conclusion, Google's warning highlights the urgent need for the EU to revamp its regulatory framework and increase investment in AI research and development. As Walker emphasized, "The future of geopolitical leadership will be defined by those who can harness the power of AI innovation." The EU must now decide whether it will take bold action to close the gap with China or risk falling further behind in the global AI race.
Sources:
Google: EU's AI adoption lags China amid regulatory hurdles (AI News)
Google Warns EU's Sluggish AI Adoption Puts It Behind China Amid Regulatory Hurdles (AI News)
This story was compiled from reports by AI News and AI News.
