Regulation of artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly developing in the Asia-Pacific region (APAC), with at least 16 jurisdictions having some form of AI guidance or regulation. The approaches to AI regulation differ, with some countries implementing AI-specific laws while others rely on nonbinding principles and standards. Common principles driving these regulations include responsible use, data security, end-user protection, and human autonomy. Recent AI regulatory developments in APAC are highlighted below. The upcoming implementation of the European Union Artificial Intelligence Act (EU AI Act) on August 1, 2024, is expected to influence regulations in APAC countries. The EU AI Act is the first comprehensive "hard" law on AI globally and covers the manufacturing, distribution, and use of AI systems with broad extraterritorial reach. Businesses in APAC are already feeling the impact of these developments.

They need to review their use of AI technology and establish AI governance frameworks to comply with applicable legal and regulatory requirements. The proliferation of AI systems across industries also has cross-sectoral impacts on business decision-making, requiring careful consideration of AI governance and compliance in areas such as mergers and acquisitions and procurement. Here are some recent AI regulatory developments in specific APAC countries: - India: The government is expected to include AI regulation in the proposed Digital India Act. An AI advisory group has been formed to develop a framework promoting innovation and minimizing AI misuse. - Indonesia: AI regulations are being prepared for implementation by the end of 2024, focusing on sanctions for AI technology misuse and breaches of existing laws. - Japan: The government is in the preliminary stages of preparing the Basic Law for the Promotion of Responsible AI, targeting AI models with significant social impact. - Malaysia: An AI code of ethics is being developed, emphasizing transparency, prevention of bias, and evaluation of automated decisions. - Singapore: The Model AI Governance Framework and AI Verify toolkit promote responsible AI development and transparency in AI applications. Safety guidelines for generative AI model developers and app deployers are being introduced. - South Korea: The Act on Promotion of the AI Industry and Framework for Establishing Trustworthy AI aims to promote domestic AI industry growth with notification requirements for certain high-risk AI. - Taiwan: The Basic Law on Artificial Intelligence draft proposes principles for AI research and application, mandatory standards for user privacy and security, and accountability frameworks. - Thailand: Draft AI legislation includes an AI regulatory sandbox and a risk-based approach to AI regulation. No significant developments have been reported in 2024. - Vietnam: The Digital Technology Industry Law draft aims to advance the country's digital technology industry and includes government support and a regulatory sandbox framework. For more information and updates on AI regulation, visit the Sidley AI Monitor, a centralized resource of AI content including thought leadership and access to AI lawyers.