IT Ministry Opposes Early Regulation of AI, Citing Premature Ecosystem Development

ISLAMABAD: The Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication has expressed opposition to regulating Artificial Intelligence (AI) at this stage, arguing that it is premature to establish a regulatory body for a technology still in its early development phase, as the supporting ecosystem is not yet fully established.

Proposed AI Regulation Bill

The “Regulation of Artificial Intelligence Act 2024” is a proposed law that the Senate Secretariat has just made public; it seeks to regulate AI and associated technologies. On the other hand, the Ministry of IT and Telecom has voiced its concerns on this kind of regulation, pointing to the worldwide tendency to place an excessive emphasis on rules governing ecosystem growth and Al policies. While acknowledging the risks involved with the technology, MoITT maintains that the current requirement for regulatory supervision is overshadowed by Al’s potential for growth and innovation.

Local and Global Perspectives

More than half of nations worldwide have AI plans in place, but only around 10% have passed laws to control the technology. This shows that there was an intention to encourage AI ecosystems before putting legislative limits.

Data availability, protection, and good governance are cornerstones in nations with developed AI industries. These measures, taken before discussing regulation, will guarantee a solid foundation to back AI innovation.

Ecosystem development is clearly a priority in Pakistan. The national AI program is spearheaded by the Ministry of Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives (MOPDSI), with the backing of an inclusive task team that includes representatives from government, universities, and businesses.

A similar AI Committee has been established by MoITT to complete the National AI Policy. In line with the National AI Plan being developed by MOPDSI, this policy seeks to direct the establishment of a sustainable AI ecosystem.