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 its adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) technology through a smarter regulatory approach. According to Walker, the EU's slow pace in embracing AI is putting it at a significant disadvantage in the global market, particularly against China.
Speaking at the Competitive Europe Summit in Brussels on October 1, 2025, Walker emphasized that AI is a crucial tool for reshaping nearly every aspect of modern life and defining the future of geopolitical leadership. However, he noted that the EU's lagging adoption rate is estimated to be around 14%, compared to China's impressive 83% usage of generative AI.
Walker's comments come as the EU grapples with regulatory hurdles that are hindering its ability to fully leverage the potential of AI. In contrast, China has made significant strides in integrating AI across its economy, thanks in part to government investment and supportive policies. According to Walker, "the EU needs a more forward-thinking approach to regulation to unlock the full potential of AI and maintain global competitiveness."
The disparity between the EU's and China's AI adoption rates is striking. While the EU's 14% usage rate lags behind, China has made significant strides in integrating AI into various sectors, including healthcare, finance, and education. This gap has raised concerns among policymakers and industry experts about the long-term implications for Europe's economic and technological competitiveness.
Walker's call to action is not the first warning from Google on this issue. In a recent report, the company highlighted the need for more effective regulation to support AI adoption in the EU. According to the report, "a more streamlined regulatory framework would enable businesses to innovate and invest in AI with greater confidence."
The EU has taken steps to address these concerns, including the introduction of the Artificial Intelligence Act, which aims to establish a comprehensive regulatory framework for AI development and deployment. However, some experts argue that more needs to be done to create an environment conducive to AI innovation.
As Walker emphasized, "the EU's slow pace in embracing AI is not just a matter of economic competitiveness; it also has significant implications for our collective future." With the global AI market projected to reach $190 billion by 2028, the stakes are high. As policymakers and industry leaders grapple with these challenges, one thing is clear: the EU must find a way to accelerate its AI adoption rate if it hopes to remain a major player in the global tech landscape.
In response to Walker's comments, an EU spokesperson noted that "we take seriously the need for effective regulation to support AI innovation and deployment." However, they emphasized that "any regulatory framework must balance the need for innovation with concerns around safety, security, and accountability."
As the debate continues, one thing is certain: the EU's ability to harness the potential of AI will be crucial in determining its future economic and technological trajectory. With Walker's warning serving as a stark reminder of the stakes, policymakers and industry leaders must work together to create an environment that supports innovation and competitiveness.
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.
