EC released guidelines for providers of general-purpose AI models

The European Commission has released guidelines for providers of general-purpose AI models. With the upcoming applicability of the AI Act provisions on the obligations of general-purpose AI models, effective from 2 August 2025, this is a very timely publication that answers key questions on the topic. 

The guidelines address questions related to the obligations: 

• What is a General-purpose AI model?
• Who is considered a “provider” of a general-purpose AI model, and when does “placing on the market” occur?
• What are the conditions for the applicability of certain exemptions from the obligations?
• What is the effect of becoming a signatory of the General-Purpose AI Code of Practice? 

With the ongoing public debate on the meaning of specific provisions of the AI Act, the clarity provided by the Guidelines on the scope of obligations for providers of general-purpose AI models under the AI Act will help many members of our Association understand whether they are subject to these obligations and to what extent, thereby ensuring full compliance with the upcoming legal regime. 

The document should be read in conjunction with the voluntary General-Purpose AI Code of Practice, which was published on 10 July 2025. Both documents aim to ensure that the AI models placed on the EU market are meeting the required safety, transparency and copyright obligations, so that trustworthy AI is fostered in Europe. 

BDVA, especially Task Force GenAI, Task Force Policy and Societal and etami, took an active role in shaping those documents. In multiple rounds of consultations on the Code of Practice and the Guidelines, we shared with the Commission our members’ views and concerns related to the soon-enforceable AI Act. While those consultations are over at this time, it does not mean that the individuals from our Association cannot continue the engagement in shaping the European AI-related actions. Until 14 September, the Commission is seeking experts for the AI Scientific Panel, which during a 2 years long term will be supporting the implementation and enforcement of the AI Act. To learn more about opportunities, visit the website here.