The <span class="news-text_italic-underline">European Union's Artificial Intelligence (AI) Act</span> represents a significant step towards the responsible development and deployment of AI technologies across Europe. Businesses involved in AI within the EU must prepare for several key deadlines in 2025, each with specific obligations to ensure compliance with the new regulatory framework.
The first important deadline was on <span class="news-text_medium">2 February 2025</span>, when prohibitions on AI systems identified as presenting "unacceptable risks" came into force. These prohibitions target AI systems that exploit vulnerabilities in specific groups, use subliminal techniques, or are applied for social scoring. Businesses should immediately review their AI systems to ensure they do not involve these prohibited practices. Non-compliance could lead to significant penalties, including fines of up to €35 million or 7% of annual revenue.
The next crucial date is <span class="news-text_medium">2 May 2025</span>, when the AI Office will take responsibility for supporting the creation of codes of practice for providers of general-purpose AI models. These codes are essential for businesses in the AI sector to comply with the Act’s requirements. If these codes are not finalised by 2 August 2025 or are found to be insufficient, the European Commission may step in to establish uniform rules for AI providers. It is critical for businesses to participate in or support the creation of these codes to avoid regulatory intervention.
Finally, on <span class="news-text_medium">2 August 2025</span>, the obligations for providers of general-purpose AI models will officially take effect. These obligations include technical documentation requirements, ensuring compliance with copyright laws and increasing transparency around the data used for training AI systems. In addition to these technical requirements, Member States will begin enforcing rules regarding the notification of authorities, penalties and administrative fines. Providers must prepare to comply with these new requirements to avoid enforcement actions.
