What primary regulatory requirement must AI systems comply with when already regulated under existing EU laws?

AI systems that are already governed by existing EU laws must primarily comply with sector-specific regulations. This is because the regulatory landscape for AI is built upon the foundations of existing laws that govern specific sectors, such as data protection, consumer rights, and financial services.

Sector-specific regulations are designed to address the unique risks and applications within particular industries. For example, an AI system used in healthcare will need to comply with regulations pertinent to medical devices, patient data protection, and clinical research, in addition to overarching AI regulations such as the AI Act. The compliance with these specialized laws ensures that AI systems operate safely, ethically, and in alignment with the particular requirements and standards of their respective sectors.

The importance of this compliance lies in ensuring that AI technologies do not inadvertently violate existing legal frameworks while also aligning with the principles and objectives established by the regulatory authorities in those sectors. This dual compliance approach helps maintain safety, privacy, and accountability, making it essential for organizations deploying AI in regulated environments.