The EU AI Act: Time for UK businesses to prepare

The EU Artificial Intelligence Act (the 'AI Act'), which came into force in August 2024, is set to transform the global landscape of AI regulation. As the first comprehensive legal framework of its kind, the Act introduces far-reaching obligations for organisations that develop, deploy or use AI systems within the EU.

Importantly, the Act’s reach extends beyond the EU. UK companies with operations, clients, directors or shareholders in France or elsewhere in the EU may also be caught by its provisions — even if their AI systems are developed or used mainly in the UK.

The first obligations, targeting unacceptable or prohibited uses of AI, became enforceable in February 2025 and carry significant financial penalties. Additional obligations will be phased in over the next 18 months, addressing AI risk classification, transparency, data governance, and human oversight.

Many businesses are unsure where to begin, particularly given the limited official guidance currently available.

Now is the time to start preparing by assessing:

• Whether your AI systems fall within the AI Act’s scope

• The risk classification and compliance requirements that may apply

• What governance, documentation and technical measures are needed

• How to manage overlapping UK and EU compliance obligations

We’re already helping clients understand what the EU AI Act means for their business and how to prepare confidently for the changes ahead.If you use or develop AI systems that connect to the EU in any way, now is the time to get clarity.

Contact our team to discuss how we can help you build a practical and proportionate compliance plan.