Taiwan’s Legislature passed the third and final reading of the Artificial Intelligence Basic Act, underscoring that government promotion of AI research and application must adhere to principles including privacy protection, data governance, and accountability.

“There are no textual revisions. By resolution, the draft Artificial Intelligence Basic Act is hereby enacted,” said Deputy Legislative Speaker Johnny Chiang (江啟臣).

The legislation establishes a legal framework to guide the development and use of artificial intelligence, with the National Science and Technology Council (NSTC) designated as the central competent authority and county and city governments responsible at the local level.

Under the law, the government must promote AI research and application while balancing social welfare, digital equity, innovation, and national competitiveness. It sets out seven guiding principles: sustainability and well-being, human autonomy, privacy protection and data governance, cybersecurity and safety, transparency and explainability, fairness and non-discrimination, and accountability.

To prevent potential harm, the act requires authorities to avoid AI applications that infringe on people’s lives, bodily integrity, freedom, or property, or that undermine social order, national security, or the environment. It also seeks to guard against biased or discriminatory outcomes, false advertising, misinformation, and fabricated content. High-risk AI products or systems must carry clear notices or warnings.

The law further mandates the Cabinet to establish a committee, convened by the premier and composed of experts, industry representatives, relevant agency heads, and local government leaders, to formulate a national AI development framework.

Lawmakers from both major parties said the next phase will focus on enforcement measures, cross-ministerial coordination, and broad participation from industry and society to ensure the framework remains forward-looking and innovation-friendly.