The European Parliament debated on 19 May 2026 a report by Brando Benifei (S&D) on an AI strategy for EU trade, revealing deep splits over the balance between regulation and competitiveness. Benifei argued AI can help SMEs and customs, but warned of dependencies on semiconductors and rare earths, calling for coordinated economic security tools and the delayed tech sovereignty package. Commissioner Apostolos Tzitzikostas (EPP) welcomed the report, stressing openness with trust and promoting the AI Act globally.
Centre groups diverge on regulatory approach Miriam Lexmann (EPP) backed AI for customs checks, while Jörgen Warborn (EPP) cautioned against favoring open-source over proprietary models. Lina Gálvez (S&D) emphasized safeguards for workers and open-source AI, and Christel Schaldemose (S&D) urged faster action to compete with China. Renew Europe MEPs Michael McNamara highlighted EU irrelevance in US-China AI safety talks, Barry Andrews noted Europe developed only 3 of 58 advanced AI systems, and Ana Vasconcelos warned against barriers to tech trade.
Periphery groups push for deregulation or stronger safeguards Aleksandar Nikolic (PfE) criticized overregulation, saying Europe missed the AI boom. Rihards Kols (ECR) supported AI as an equalizer but warned against dense compliance, while Francesco Torselli (ECR) called for regulatory sandboxes. Alexandra Geese (Greens/EFA) accused the Commission of kowtowing to US threats by postponing the sovereignty package, and Sergey Lagodinsky (Greens/EFA) demanded conditions for the EU-US trade deal. Lynn Boylan (The Left) raised concerns about data centers straining housing and grids. Victor Negrescu (S&D) pushed for investment in Central and Eastern Europe, and Martine Kemp (EPP) stressed fair access to AI infrastructure.
Stakeholder impacts and next steps The debate highlighted trade-offs: EU SMEs could benefit from AI-driven customs efficiency, but face compliance costs from regulation. Customs authorities may gain tools but need investment. Workers risk displacement without safeguards, while tech firms face uncertainty between open-source and proprietary models. The vote on the report is scheduled for 20 May 2026.