Ministry for Economics publishes "Responsible AI" guideline

"Clearly, AI will play an increasing role. The technology helps increase productivity, opens up new markets, and makes business processes more efficient and effective. An extensive ecosystem of companies, science facilities and institutions is emerging in Hamburg that bundle AI expertise and benefit from each other," said Dr Melanie Leonhard, Senator for Economics and Innovation. Services in business and administration will be accelerated, decision-making processes automated and data analyses simplified. However, the technological progress is not without risks such as discrimination, breach of privacy or manipulation, prompting Leonhard to add: "This innovation must be used responsibly." The AI Act, which is currently being drafted by the EU, is expected to set up clear rules and standards for a risk-based approach to AI use.

"Companies and the state of Hamburg can be pioneers for the socially-responsible use of AI and take concrete steps in the run-up to the AI Act that will soon come into force," said Friedrich-Joachim Mehmel, a representative of the LawCom Institute and co-author of the study that concluded in April. It offers SMEs guidance and gauges the potential impact of the planned EU law. All new developments and adaptations of existing AI systems must comply with the AI Act for approval. SMEs will likely be obliged to make internal processes transparent and document them. However, the AI Act's rules and standards, which should increase consumer confidence in AI applications, could also give SMEs a competitive edge and a seal of approval for "Responsible AI". The law also aims to spur AI innovation. SMEs that adapt to the regulations and offer innovative, trustworthy AI solutions could benefit from this framework.

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