The EU AI Act: What It Means for the Translation Industry
The EU Artificial Intelligence Act (AI Act) is the world’s first regulation for artificial intelligence, representing a pivotal shift toward trustworthy, transparent AI. While its implications span across various sectors, the translation industry stands to be especially affected.
At Anglia Translations Ltd, we blend AI with human expertise. As regulations tighten, our hybrid model positions us well, but it also raises new expectations for how AI-assisted translations are performed and governed. In this article, we will cover key dates for the act, as well as how you can ensure your translation services adhere.
Key Dates: When the AI Act Takes Effect
Here’s a timeline of the EU AI Act’s critical dates to be aware of:
12 July 2024 – The Act is published in the EU’s Official Journal.
1 August 2024 – The law formally enters into force across all EU Member States.
2 February 2025 – Initial provisions, including definitions and bans on “unacceptable-risk” AI, become applicable (Chapters I & II).
2 August 2025 – Requirements for General Purpose AI (GPAI) models come into force-covering transparency, documentation, and copyright compliance.
2 August 2026 – Most major obligations are enforceable, including for high-risk systems and full regulatory enforcement.
By 2 August 2027 – Providers of GPAI models already on the market must fully comply.
Who Does the EU AI Act Apply To?
From 2 February 2025, the regulation applies to almost every part of the AI supply chain, both inside and outside the EU. The Act covers:
- Providers of AI systems – Anyone placing AI systems or general-purpose AI models (like large language models used in translation) on the EU market, whether based in the EU or abroad.
- Deployers of AI systems – Any organisation or individual using AI within the EU. For translation, that could mean agencies or businesses using AI-powered tools for multilingual content.
- Third-country providers and deployers – Even if based outside the EU, companies must comply if their AI outputs are used within the Union.
- Importers and distributors – Businesses importing or selling AI tools into the EU market.
- Product manufacturers – Companies embedding AI into their products (for example, translation software bundled into devices or platforms).
- Authorised representatives – Those acting on behalf of providers not established in the EU.
For the translation industry, this means both developers of AI translation tools and the agencies or businesses that deploy them in the EU must pay close attention to compliance.
How Can the Translation Industry Prepare?
- Start compliance reviews now – If you’re using or developing GPAI tools by 2 August 2025, ensure documentation, copyright notices, and transparency are in place.
- Human-in-the-loop isn’t optional, it’s essential – Even advanced AI should be overseen by skilled linguists to handle context, nuance, and regulatory expectations.
- Educate and communicate – Clients should understand where AI’s strengths lie, and its limitations. Highlight how human oversight protects against bias, or misinterpretation.
The EU AI Act marks a turning point. It’s not just about regulating technology, it’s about building trust in AI. For the translation industry, this means embracing AI responsibly while continuing to rely on the expertise of skilled linguists.
As the Act rolls out, one thing is clear: the future of translation isn’t AI or humans, it’s AI and humans, working together to deliver trustworthy results. Find out more about our translation services, or get in touch with a member of our team to get a quote.
