Dispatch from Brussels: Updates on EU tech policy

von der Leyen’s speech: On 10 September 2025, the European Commission President addressed the European Parliament in Strasbourg. The speech (which has been a staple of EU politics since 2010) is of high importance for EU institutions, as it sets out the legislative and policy agenda for the year ahead. It also situates the Union’s priorities within broader debates about Europe’s role in the world. The speech covered key points, from defence priorities and international partnerships to the need for greater investment in technology, including the proposal to introduce a “made in Europe” criterion in public procurement. A summary of the speech’s contents, relevant to members, is available on our website.

Consultation on transparent AI systems: The European Commission has launched a consultation to help develop guidelines and a Code of Practice on transparent AI systems. The Commission aims to assist providers and deployers of generative AI systems in detecting and labelling AI-generated or manipulated content. The consultation invites input from providers and deployers of interactive and generative AI models and systems, as well as those involved in biometric categorisation and emotion recognition systems. Public and private sector organisations, academic and research experts, civil society representatives, supervisory authorities, and citizens are all encouraged to share their views by 2 October 2025.

Apply to shape the Code of Practice on AI transparency: As mentioned above, the European Commission is developing a Code of Practice on transparent generative AI systems. You can express interest in directly participating in the drafting of the code, or in serving as Chair or Vice-Chair of the drafting process, until 2 October 2025. For reference, the code will outline how providers and deployers can comply with their obligations under Article 50(2) and (4) of the EU AI Act.

Simplification agenda

EU Commission opens consultation for Simplification Package: On 16 September, the European Commission opened a public consultation on its upcoming simplification package. This package, designed to provide immediate relief for businesses, will focus on the data acquis, rules on cookies and other tracking technologies, cybersecurity incident reporting, and targeted adjustments to the Artificial Intelligence Act. Feedback can be submitted until 14 October 2025.

Tech Commissioner holds implementation dialogue: On 15 September, EU Tech Commissioner Henna Virkkunen held an “implementation dialogue” with a select group of stakeholders. During the dialogue, she confirmed that the EU’s upcoming Digital Simplification Package would be published in December 2025. She emphasised that the package would not seek to deregulate, but rather to simplify legislation. Reporting obligations were highlighted as a central element, with the aim of reducing burdens for firms, particularly SMEs.

Data flows

Data Act now applicable: The EU Data Act, which establishes a horizontal set of rules on data access and use, became applicable on 12 September (with most of its obligations now in effect). To mark this milestone, the European Commission has published several documents to help stakeholders navigate the new rules. These include an FAQ and a guidance document on vehicle data, both available on the Commission’s website. Notably, the Commission’s press release indicates that the EU will set up a dedicated Data Act Legal Helpdesk to provide guidance on data use and the protection of trade secrets. The Commission will also publish model terms for data sharing and standard clauses for cloud contracts to facilitate data sharing.

techUK International Policy and Trade Programme activities

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