TLDR: Meta Platforms announced on July 18, 2025, that it will not sign the European Union’s voluntary Code of Practice for general-purpose AI (GPAI) models. Joel Kaplan, Meta’s Chief Global Affairs Officer, stated that the guidelines represent ‘over-reach’ and introduce ‘legal uncertainties’ that could hinder AI innovation in Europe. This decision contrasts with other major tech companies like OpenAI, which intend to sign the code.
Meta Platforms has publicly declared its refusal to sign the European Union’s voluntary Code of Practice for general-purpose AI (GPAI) models, a move announced by Joel Kaplan, Meta’s Chief Global Affairs Officer, on Friday, July 18, 2025. Kaplan criticized the EU’s approach, stating, ‘Europe is heading down the wrong path on AI,’ and described the code as ‘over-reach.’ He further elaborated that the Code introduces ‘a number of legal uncertainties for model developers, as well as measures which go far beyond the scope of the AI Act.’
The EU’s Code of Practice, published on July 10, 2025, is a voluntary framework designed to help AI companies comply with the broader EU AI Act, which was approved in 2024. The AI Act is the first comprehensive legal framework globally governing AI, aiming to ensure AI systems in the EU are safe, transparent, and respectful of fundamental human rights. The Code of Practice includes tangible guidelines such as banning the training of AI on pirated materials, requiring respect for requests from writers and artists to omit their work from training data, and mandating developers to provide regularly updated documentation describing their AI features.
While signing the code is voluntary, it offers perks such as lower administrative burdens and greater legal certainty. Conversely, AI providers who do not sign ‘will have to demonstrate other means of compliance’ and ‘may be exposed to more regulatory scrutiny,’ according to Thomas Regnier, the European Commission’s spokesperson for digital matters. Companies found in violation of the AI Act can face substantial penalties, with fines potentially reaching up to seven percent of a company’s annual sales.
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Meta’s decision stands in contrast to other major tech players, with OpenAI having stated its intention to sign the code of practice. OpenAI noted that signing the code reflects its commitment to providing ‘capable, accessible and secure AI models for Europeans.’ Meta, however, joins a growing chorus of critics, including Dutch chipmaker ASML Holding and aerospace giant Airbus, who have co-signed a letter urging the European Commission to delay the code’s rollout by two years. These companies express concerns that the current framework could create unnecessary barriers for AI development and stunt innovation within the EU.
