The digital sector is urging the EU leaders to delay the AI act, citing missing guidance and legal uncertainty. Industry group CCIA Europe warns that pressing ahead could damage AI innovation and stall the bloc's economic ambitions.

The AI Act's rules for general-purpose AI models are set to apply in August, but key frameworks are incomplete. Concerns have grown as the European Commission risks missing deadlines while the region seeks a E3.4 trillion AI-driven economic boost by 2030.

CCIA Europe calls for the EU heads of state to instruct a pause on implementation to ensure companies have time to comply. Such a delay would allow final standards to be established, offering developers clarity and supporting AI competitiveness.

Failure to adjust the timeline could leave Europe struggling to lead in AI, according to CCIA Europe's leadership. A rushed approach, they argue, risks harming the very innovation the AI Act aims to promote.