US, China and European Union Approaches to Artificial Intelligence Regulation
The world's three leading major actors are pursuing distinct strategies and policies to bring artificial intelligence technology under control.
The United States, China, and the European Union are pursuing three different paths to shape the future of artificial intelligence technology: voluntary commitments, strict state oversight, and comprehensive legal frameworks.
US Voluntary and Growth-Oriented Policy
In the US, President Donald Trump has built artificial intelligence policy on voluntary industry commitments and executive orders supporting economic growth.
With the Artificial Intelligence Action Plan announced in July 2025, federal agencies are required to purchase neutral models while laws continue to take effect at the state level.
China's Strict Rules and State Control
China has a highly complex and evolving set of rules in the field of artificial intelligence, including for children's use.
While President Xi Jinping has emphasized that artificial intelligence must remain under human control, the state simultaneously strictly censors content.
European Union's Comprehensive Legal Framework
The European Union enacted the Artificial Intelligence Act in 2024, which is considered the world's most comprehensive set of rules.
Due to fears that innovation would slow down, a postponement was secured for high-risk system rules, while ChatGPT was added to the list of services subject to strict oversight.