EU Unveils "Apply AI Strategy" to Enhance Domestic AI Capabilities

On October 6, 2025, the European Union (EU) announced its "Apply AI strategy," aimed at reducing reliance on American and Chinese technology by promoting the development of homegrown artificial intelligence (AI) solutions. The strategy, set to be presented by EU tech chief Henna Virkkunen, emphasizes AI as a strategic asset crucial for the EU's competitiveness, security, and resilience across various sectors, including healthcare, defense, and manufacturing.

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The European Commission has outlined several key objectives within the strategy. These include strengthening EU AI sovereignty, enhancing the integration of AI in critical sectors, and fostering growth for AI startups through increased demand for European-made solutions. To support this initiative, the Commission has pledged €1 billion from existing financing programs, aiming to accelerate the adoption of AI technologies across public services and industries.

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The strategy highlights the risks associated with dependence on external AI technology, particularly from the U.S. and China. Concerns have intensified regarding the potential for foreign control of essential AI infrastructure to be weaponized by state and non-state actors. The EU's reliance on imports for software, hardware, and critical minerals poses significant challenges, especially as geopolitical tensions rise.

A new AI strategy by the EU to cut reliance on the US and China

President Ursula von der Leyen has emphasized the need for Europe to reclaim its industrial edge in AI technology. She noted that while the U.S. and China are advancing rapidly in AI, Europe must also push for innovations such as AI-powered mobility, including self-driving cars. This initiative is seen as vital for revitalizing the European automotive sector and ensuring that future technologies are developed within the EU.

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Despite the ambitious goals of the "Apply AI strategy," critics have pointed out that the EU's historical regulatory framework has often stifled innovation. There are concerns that excessive regulation could hinder the growth of the AI sector, making it difficult for European companies to compete effectively against their American and Chinese counterparts.

EU Unveils AI Plan to Cut Dependency on US and China Tech

Ursula von der Leyen stated, "The future of cars — and the cars of the future — must be made in Europe," underscoring the urgency of advancing AI technologies within the EU. Additionally, the Commission's draft proposal warns that external dependencies could threaten supply chains and overall security.

The EU is preparing an AI development strategy to counter China, and Brussels is also "ready" for new technology regulation

• “President Ursula von der Leyen said the bloc aims to ‘speed up AI adoption across the board’ to ensure it does not miss the transformative wave.” — Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission

A new AI strategy by the EU to cut reliance on the US and China

• “the main obstacle to the development of innovation and AI.” — Henna Virkkunen, EU Tech Chief

The EU is preparing an AI development strategy to counter China, and Brussels is also "ready" for new technology regulation

The EU's "Apply AI strategy" is expected to be officially presented in the coming days, with further details on implementation and regulatory changes anticipated. The strategy is part of a broader effort to enhance Europe’s position in the global AI landscape and ensure digital independence in the face of increasing competition.

EU Unveils AI Plan to Cut Dependency on US and China Tech