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The G7 nations’ antitrust authorities have announced plans for “vigorous” enforcement actions to safeguard competition in the AI sector. Following a two-day summit in Rome, they emphasized the need to tackle risks before they become “entrenched or irreversible.”

The authorities aim to reduce “competitive bottlenecks” that disadvantage new AI entrants compared to established firms, which often have first access to advanced AI tools, data, and specialized chips. They also want to prevent AI from being used to facilitate collusion, which could lead to price controls, sharing of sensitive information, or monopolies.

The group, comprising the United States, United Kingdom, Japan, Canada, France, Germany, and Italy, is also focused on preventing AI misuse that could impact copyright, consumer protection, privacy, and data protection. They highlighted the potential harm generative AI systems could cause to content creators and innovators, potentially stifling creativity and innovation.

Ensuring AI systems do not distort consumer decision-making with false or misleading information is crucial for maintaining consumer trust and promoting a healthy competitive environment. The watchdogs stressed the importance of staying updated with AI developments, establishing AI laws, and enhancing international cooperation to achieve favorable outcomes in AI markets.

They also proposed “guiding principles” to ensure AI markets remain open and fair, including fair competition, access and opportunity, choice, interoperability, innovation, transparency, and accountability.

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