July 31, 2025 – On the 30th local time, Google announced its intention to sign the European Union’s “Code of Conduct on General Purpose AI” alongside several other companies, including U.S.-based model providers. The tech giant aims to leverage the framework outlined in the Code to expedite access to safe and cutting-edge AI tools for European citizens and businesses.
Google emphasized that Europe stands to gain significantly from the rapid and widespread adoption of AI technologies. By 2034, the region’s annual economic output could increase by 8%, translating to an estimated €1.4 trillion boost.
Despite its commitment to signing the Code, Google voiced reservations in its statement. The company expressed concerns that the EU’s “AI Act” and the “Code of Conduct on General Purpose AI” might hinder the development and deployment of AI in Europe. Specifically, provisions that deviate from EU copyright laws, measures that slow down approval processes, or requirements that risk exposing trade secrets could impede the progress of European model development and deployment, ultimately undermining the continent’s competitiveness.
Prior to Google’s announcement, Meta had already declined to sign the Code, citing legal uncertainties it imposes on model developers and measures that extend beyond the scope of the EU’s “AI Act.”
