Big Tech Firms Support Trump's Call for AI DeregulationMajor tech companies are backing US President Donald Trump's administration in its push to deregulate artificial intelligence (AI) development, asserting that it is crucial for the US to maintain a competitive edge, particularly against China.Shifting PrioritiesSince Trump took office, there has been a notable shift towards accelerating AI advancement, setting aside concerns about potential risks such as model hallucinations, deepfake creation, and job displacement. This change in approach has prompted tech giants to advocate for less restrictive regulations on AI.Global ResponseInternationally, this new direction has unsettled some partners, especially in Europe, which had previously established stringent guidelines like the EU AI Act. However, faced with the US's evolving stance, European officials are now focusing more on fostering innovation and investment in AI rather than imposing strict regulatory measures.Industry InfluenceThe tech industry, emboldened by the deregulatory climate, is seeking greater freedom in AI development. Trump's administration has welcomed input from industry leaders to shape its AI action plan, emphasizing the importance of the US maintaining its leadership position in AI technology.OpenAI, for instance, has underscored the competitive threat posed by Chinese AI advancements, urging for protections to ensure American AI development remains unhindered by authoritarian constraints or excessive bureaucracy.Varied PerspectivesResponses from industry players like Meta and Google reflect a shared sentiment that minimizing regulatory constraints is essential for American technological dominance in the AI sector. However, concerns remain about the inherent risks associated with AI, prompting calls for responsible development practices despite the push for deregulation.It is evident that the debate surrounding AI regulation and deregulation is complex and multifaceted, with stakeholders across the globe closely monitoring how these decisions will shape the future of AI technology. Originally published on doc.afp.com, part of the BLOX Digital Content Exchange.Global ResponseInternationally, this new direction has unsettled some partners, especially in Europe, which had previously established stringent guidelines like the EU AI Act. However, faced with the US's evolving stance, European officials are now focusing more on fostering innovation and investment in AI rather than imposing strict regulatory measures.