7 Global Laws Every Business Must Watch in 2025

What’s Causing the AI Compliance Wave?

If you’ve heard more talk about new rules for artificial intelligence, you’re not alone. Governments around the world are racing to write laws that keep up with smart machines. In 2025, new and proposed regulations are popping up almost every month. These rules can change how you do business—no matter where you are.

Eric Yaillen, a leader in AI compliance and branding, says, “AI is not just a technology trend. It’s a compliance challenge that touches every part of your business. The businesses that pay attention now will be the ones that thrive.”

So, which laws matter most? Here’s what every business should know.

What Is the EU AI Act and Why Does It Matter?

The European Union’s AI Act is the world’s most ambitious law for artificial intelligence. If your business sells to anyone in Europe—or uses AI systems that affect Europeans—this law could impact you.

Key features:

• AI systems are ranked by risk. High-risk uses (like hiring, credit scoring or medical tools) face strict controls.

• The law requires clear documentation, human oversight and transparency.

• Businesses must label AI-generated “deepfakes.”

• Fines for breaking the rules can reach €35 million or 7% of global sales.

This law will set the standard for the rest of the world, much like GDPR did for data privacy.

What Is the U.S. Federal Approach to AI Regulation?

In the United States, there is not yet a single national law for AI. But that’s changing fast. Congress is considering bills to ban deepfakes in elections, require watermarking for synthetic content, and demand transparency for automated decisions.

At the same time, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is using its existing powers to punish unfair or deceptive AI practices. For example, the FTC has fined companies for using fake AI-generated reviews and undisclosed endorsements.

"Just because there isn’t one big law in the U.S. doesn’t mean you’re off the hook. The FTC and state attorneys are watching, and they have teeth.” ~ Eric Yaillen

Which U.S. States Are Passing Their Own AI Laws?

Several U.S. states have moved ahead of the federal government with their own AI regulations:

• California: Laws require businesses to disclose when people are interacting with bots and to protect biometric data (like voiceprints).

• Colorado: Passed the nation’s first “comprehensive” AI law, requiring companies to audit high-risk AI systems for bias and discrimination.

• New York: Requires audits and bias checks for AI used in hiring and promotions.

• Illinois: The Biometric Information Privacy Act (BIPA) covers AI voice and face data, with large fines for violations.

Each state has its own details, so multi-state businesses must track and follow every relevant rule.

What Is China Doing About AI Compliance?

China has moved quickly to control how AI is used. New rules require:

• Watermarking and visible labeling for AI-generated content.

• Approval for deepfake technology.

• Bans on AI that could threaten national security or social stability.

• Platforms to monitor and report harmful content.

China’s approach is strict. If you do business in or with China, these rules are not optional.

What Are Other Countries Doing About AI?

United Kingdom: The UK has issued “guidelines” rather than strict laws, asking businesses to ensure AI is fair, transparent, and does not harm people. But more concrete rules are expected soon.

Canada: The Artificial Intelligence and Data Act (AIDA) is in progress, which will set requirements for high-impact AI and require companies to assess risks.

Brazil, Australia, Singapore, and more are all drafting their own AI rules, focusing on fairness, safety, and protecting consumers.

What Are the Most Common Rules in These Laws?

Across all these new and proposed laws, several key themes appear again and again:

• Transparency: Tell people when they’re interacting with AI.

• Consent: Get permission before using people’s data—especially sensitive info like biometrics.

• Bias Audits: Test your AI for unfair outcomes, especially in high-impact areas like jobs, loans, or healthcare.

• Documentation: Keep records of how your AI works, what data it uses, and how decisions are made.

• Labeling: Mark AI-generated images, video, and text, so users know what’s real and what’s synthetic.

• Explainability: Be able to explain, in plain language, how your AI makes decisions.

“AI compliance is about trust. The rules may differ, but the goal is the same: keep people safe and informed.” ~ Eric Yaillen

How Can Businesses Prepare for the AI Compliance Wave?

Here are steps every business can take right now:

1. Stay Informed: Make it someone’s job to watch for new laws in every place you operate or serve customers.

2. Audit Your AI: Regularly check your AI systems for bias, accuracy, and fairness.

3. Get Consent: Always ask before collecting or using sensitive data.

4. Disclose and Label: Tell users when content is AI-generated, and make disclosures clear.

5. Document Everything: Save records of your decisions, audits, and data sources.

6. Train Your Team: Make sure everyone understands the new rules, from tech teams to marketers.

“Don’t wait for a law to pass. Start building compliance into your AI projects today. That way, when the wave hits, you’ll already be ahead.” ~ Eric Yaillen

What Happens If Businesses Ignore These Laws?

Ignoring the AI compliance wave can be costly:

• Hefty Fines: As with GDPR, regulators can fine companies millions for breaking AI rules.

• Lawsuits: Customers or employees who feel harmed by unfair AI can sue.

• Lost Trust: News of violations spreads quickly. Once customers lose trust, they may never come back.

• Blocked Markets: Non-compliance can mean being banned from selling in some regions.

It’s not just about avoiding penalties. It’s about keeping your business safe and your brand respected.

What’s Next in AI Compliance?

The only thing certain is change. Laws will keep evolving as AI grows more powerful. Businesses that keep learning, stay transparent, and build trust with customers will have the advantage.

“AI is here to stay, and so are the rules. The best companies won’t see compliance as a chore. They’ll see it as a chance to lead.” ~ Eric Yaillen

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