I. AI Act: Implementation Phase Begins
The EU Artificial Intelligence Act has entered the first stage of implementation, with several provisions becoming operational during 2026. Member States and the European Commission are now focusing on establishing governance structures, regulatory sandboxes, and technical standards for high-risk AI systems.
Why it matters: Companies developing or deploying AI in the EU should begin aligning compliance strategies with upcoming requirements on transparency, risk management, and data governance. Early engagement with regulators can help shape guidance and implementation practices.
II. Critical Raw Materials Act: Strategic Projects Pipeline
The European Commission is advancing implementation of the Critical Raw Materials Act (CRMA), including the identification and support of “Strategic Projects” across the EU and partner countries. These projects aim to secure supply chains for key minerals needed for clean technologies and digital infrastructure.
Why it matters: Companies involved in mining, processing, recycling, or supply chains linked to critical materials should monitor the selection of projects and funding opportunities, as well as potential regulatory incentives and permitting reforms.
III. EU Competitiveness Agenda: Industrial Policy Initiatives
The Commission continues to develop its competitiveness agenda through measures targeting industrial innovation, digital transformation, and strategic autonomy. Several initiatives aim to streamline regulatory requirements and facilitate investment in key sectors such as clean technology, semiconductors, and AI.
Why it matters: Businesses should assess how emerging industrial policy tools—ranging from funding programs to regulatory simplifications—may affect investment planning, market entry, and cross-border cooperation.
IV. Digital Markets Act: Enforcement Actions Intensify
The European Commission has stepped up enforcement under the Digital Markets Act (DMA), scrutinizing gatekeeper platforms’ compliance with obligations related to data access, interoperability, and fair competition.
Why it matters: Technology companies and digital service providers operating within the EU ecosystem should evaluate how DMA enforcement could reshape platform practices, partnerships, and market dynamics.
V. EU Defence Industrial Strategy: Implementation Steps
Following earlier agreements on defence cooperation initiatives, EU institutions are advancing the implementation of the European Defence Industrial Strategy and related funding tools designed to strengthen Europe’s defence capabilities.
Why it matters: Defence and dual-use technology companies should monitor upcoming calls, procurement frameworks, and cross-border industrial partnerships supported by EU funding mechanisms.
VI. Sustainable Finance: New Reporting Guidance
EU regulators are issuing additional guidance on sustainable finance disclosures and taxonomy alignment, aiming to clarify reporting expectations for financial institutions and corporates.
Why it matters: Companies and financial institutions should review how updated guidance may affect sustainability reporting, investment classification, and disclosure obligations across EU markets.
VII. EU Trade Policy: Strategic Partnerships Expand
The EU is pursuing new trade partnerships and negotiations with key global partners to secure supply chains, expand market access, and strengthen economic cooperation in strategic sectors.
Why it matters: Companies engaged in international trade should monitor developments in tariff reductions, regulatory cooperation, and market access provisions that may influence export strategies and supply chain planning.
VIII. Council Presidency: Denmark Takes Over
Why it matters: Denmark assumes the Presidency of the Council of the EU from 1 July to 31 December 2026, shaping legislative priorities and negotiations across a wide range of EU policy files.
Understanding the presidency’s agenda can help stakeholders anticipate legislative momentum and strategically time engagement with EU institutions.
Also on the regulatory radar this quarter
Continued development of AI standards and technical guidelines following the AI Act adoption.
Increased focus on supply chain resilience and economic security across EU policies.
Further enforcement actions under digital regulation and competition law.
Key dates & actions
- AI Act implementation milestones continue throughout 2026.
- Horizon Europe and innovation funding calls remain open across several technology areas.
- Companies should monitor guidance from the Commission and national authorities on upcoming compliance obligations.
If any of these developments affect your operations, supply chains, workforce, or transactions, Alber & Geiger can design tailored engagement strategies with the European Commission, Parliament, Council, and national authorities—leveraging structured advocacy, coalition-building, and technical input to shape outcomes.
Alber & Geiger can help organizations voice their interests and concerns to EU policymakers.