Several tech companies, including Meta and Spotify, have criticised the European Union for what they describe as inconsistent decision-making on data privacy and AI. A collective letter from firms, researchers, and industry bodies warned that Europe risks losing competitiveness due to fragmented regulations. They urged data privacy regulators to deliver clear, harmonised decisions, allowing European data to be utilised in AI training for the benefit of the region.

The companies voiced concerns about the unpredictability of recent decisions made under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Meta, known for owning Facebook and Instagram, recently paused plans to collect European user data for AI development, following pressure from EU privacy authorities. Uncertainty surrounding which data can be used for AI models has become a major issue for businesses.

Tech firms have delayed product releases in Europe, seeking legal clarity. Meta postponed its Twitter-like app Threads, while Google has also delayed the launch of AI tools in the EU market. The introduction of Europe’s AI Act earlier this year added further regulatory requirements, which firms argue complicates innovation.

The European Commission insists that all companies must comply with data privacy rules, and Meta has already faced significant penalties for breaches. The letter stresses the need for swift regulatory decisions to ensure Europe can remain competitive in the AI sector.