AI-Related Disciplines: A Comparative Analysis of Regional Trade Agreements and National Regulatory Approaches

The global digital economy is witnessing the transformative impact of Artificial intelligence (AI), prompting nations to engage in AI-driven trade agreements. Under the digital trade context, these agreements aim to promote and regulate AI technologies, facilitate international AI cooperation, and touch upon data-related disciplines crucial for AI. This article delves into analysing the emerging trend in specific AI disciplines and other AI-related fields, including data provisions in regional trade agreements (RTAs). It also maps out the current landscape of AI regulatory approaches in the United States (US), the European Union (EU), China, and Singapore to analyse how these diverse domestic regulatory approaches may impact regional AI rulemaking. Findings reveal that RTAs emphasize on AI recognition, AI frameworks, and AI cooperation, albeit in a flexible and soft manner. Besides, while the US’s market-driven approach could spearhead rulemaking in AI, its recent policy shifts cast doubt on its comprehensive participation in RTAs. The EU is at the forefront of domestic AI legislation, and seeks to mirror the risk and security-based value at the regional level. China, driven by its massive market potential and concerns about data security, relies on a hybrid approach that explores regulatory strategies alongside AI development. Singapore is notable for taking proactive steps in addressing AI governance through RTAs, which demonstrates a unique form of Asian regionalism. Despite the fragmented approaches among major economies, this article emphasizes on the role of RTAs in addressing trade-related AI issues and puts forward recommendations for AIspecific rulemaking in RTAs.