EU policy on artificial intelligence integration in manufacturing

Abstract

EU policy in the field of artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming an important instrument for industrial modernization, enhancing competiti­veness, and ensuring technological sovereignty. We base our work on the idea that EU public policies directly drive technology adoption among manufacturing firms. To test this, we combine normative-doctrinal, comparative, and economic-statistical methods. This approach makes it easier to follow changes in policy decisions over time. It also helps us see how different industrial sectors actually adopt AI tools. It has been established that EU policy in the field of AI during the period 2018–2025 evolved through stages ranging from strategic positioning to institutional and infrastruc­tural consolidation, as well as industrialization and large-scale deployment of technologies. The share of enterprises using at least one AI technology increased from 6.93 % in 2021 to 17.27 % in 2025. The highest growth was observed in the pharma­ceutical industry, the production of computer products, the chemical and metallurgical indus­tries, and the manufacture of coke and refined petroleum products. These findings suggest that Ukraine can actively use European frameworks to shape its domestic AI agenda. To succeed, this strategy must span a complete governance cycle: framing policy goals, applying specific regulatory mechanisms, and running regular evaluations. Building this comprehensive structure helps make local technology governance more coordinated and efficient.