Trump halts AI regulation to compete with China: what does this mean for Spanish companies?

Royalty-free stock photograph created by Igor Omilaev and Unsplash.

Regulation of Artificial Intelligence

The Trump administration has decided not to sign an executive order to regulate artificial intelligence, a measure intended to accelerate innovation and maintain the US's competitive advantage over China. This decision widens the regulatory gap with Europe and presents new challenges and opportunities for Spanish companies.

---

The President's Administration Donald Trump has taken a strategic turn in the global technology race by ruling out signing a new executive order to regulate Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Estados Unidos. According to the newspaper South China Morning PostThe decision, dated May 21, 2026, seeks to maintain the "advantage" of the US industry over its main competitor. Chinaby avoiding regulatory burdens that could slow down innovation.

This move consolidates a policy of selective deregulation in the technology sector, with the aim of fostering an environment of maximum agility for companies EEUUThe White House believes that a strict regulatory framework could hinder the private sector's ability to develop and deploy new AI technologies at the speed needed to surpass the advances of the Asian giant.

A deregulation strategy to lead the AI ​​race

The decision not to proceed with the executive order is interpreted as a clear signal to the market: the priority is the speed and technological dominance above preventive control. While other powers, such as the Unión Europea with its strict AI ActThey advocate for a framework based on risk and ethics, Washington seems to opt for an approach of laissez-faire in order not to lose ground in an industry considered critical to national security and economic prosperity in the 21st century.

This policy contrasts with previous legislation that sought to establish safeguards in AI development. The current administration seems to believe that market dynamics and competition will drive companies to self-regulate more effectively than any government imposition, especially in a context of intense geopolitical rivalry with China.

The impact on the Spanish business ecosystem: between risk and opportunity

For Spanish companies, especially those in the technology sector and those operating in the North American market, the administration's decision Trump This creates a double-edged scenario. growing regulatory divergence across EEUU and Unión Europea This becomes more pronounced, creating a more complex operating environment.

International business experts consulted by Empresa Exterior point out the following key implications for the Spanish business sector:

• Increased Competition: Freed from potential restrictions, US technology companies could accelerate their innovation and gain global market share at a faster pace, posing a direct competitive challenge to Spanish and European firms.
• Opportunity in "Trusted AI": Europe's commitment to regulated and ethical AI (Trustworthy AI) becomes a differentiating factor. Spanish companies that comply with the EU AI Act They can position themselves in the global market as providers of secure, transparent and reliable solutions, a market niche increasingly valued by corporate clients who manage sensitive data.
• Legal Complexity: Spanish multinationals with a presence in EEUU y Europa They will have to navigate two radically different legal frameworks, which will require a greater effort in compliance and confidentiality and adapting their products and services to each market.
• Talent Attraction and Investment: A deregulated ecosystem in EEUU This could attract more venture capital and AI-specialized talent, which could pose a challenge for retaining qualified professionals in Europa.

Comparative Table: Regulatory Approaches to AI (2026)

Key Aspect	Focus of EEUU (Administration Trump)	Focus of the Unión Europea
Main Philosophy	Deregulation to maximize innovation and competitiveness.	Risk-based regulation to protect fundamental rights.
Priority	Technological leadership versus China.	Trust, security and ethics (Trustworthy AI).
Legal Instrument	Minimal intervention. No signing of new executive orders.	Artificial Intelligence Regulations (EU AI Act).
Business Impact	Agility, speed in the market, but greater reputational and legal risk.	Higher loads of compliance and confidentialitybut opportunity as a seal of quality.

Key points and frequently asked questions about the new US AI policy

How does this US deregulation affect my technology exporting company?

Directly, this means it will compete with US companies that may have faster development cycles and lower compliance costs. However, it also opens an opportunity to differentiate its product if it meets the high standards of the Unión EuropeaThis can be a key selling point for customers who prioritize safety and reliability.

Will the EU react to this measure by the Trump administration?

It is unlikely that the Unión Europea modify your roadmap, since your AI Act It is a central piece of their digital sovereignty strategy. It will most likely reaffirm its model as a global standard for "trusted AI," seeking to influence regulation in other countries through what is known as the "Brussels effect."

What opportunities arise for Spanish companies with the European regulatory approach?

The main opportunity is to become a benchmark for "ethical AI." Spanish companies can lead the development of AI solutions that are both innovative and respectful of rights and regulations. This is especially valuable in sectors such as healthcare, finance, and public administration, where trust is a non-negotiable asset.