Source: European Parliament
The United States (US) Interim Final Rule on a Framework on Artificial Intelligence (AI) Diffusion[1] (‘AI Diffusion measures’) restricts the export of advanced AI models and semiconductors. Exemptions to the restrictions depend on the ‘Tier’ or ‘category’ of country.[2]
The AI Diffusion measures go against the principles of the Single Market: the free movement of goods (advanced AI semiconductors) and services (AI-enabled services).
The Commission believes that it is also in the US’ economic and security interest that the EU buys advanced AI chips from the US without limitations. The EU cooperates closely, in particular in the field of security, and represents an economic opportunity for the US, not a security risk.
The Commission shared its concerns about these measures in a statement issued on 13 January 2025[3] immediately after the adoption of the US AI Diffusion measures.
The Commission is committed to the integrity of the Single Market and ensuring that trade restrictions do not undermine its functioning or the EU’s legitimate technological ambitions in the field of AI.
The Commission works closely with the Member States to prepare a reply to the US Bureau of Industry and Security within the consultation period until 15 May 2025, and will further engage in discussions with the US administration to find an appropriate solution.
In its engagement with the US, the Commission advocates for a non-discriminatory approach for EU Member States, which is key to safeguarding the integrity of the EU Single Market and the future of the AI ecosystem.
At the same time, recognising the strategic importance of building AI chip capabilities in Europe, the Commission already supports initiatives in AI chip design and is committed to driving their manufacturing, as set out in the Competitiveness Compass.
- [1] https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/01/15/2025-00636/framework-for-artificial-intelligence-diffusion
- [2] Tier 1: Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain and Sweden.
Tier 2: Austria, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czechia, Estonia, Greece, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia. - [3] https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/statement_25_255