16-10-2024

Lithuania accelerates development of artificial intelligence by creating a "sandbox" to test the technology

Lithuania is becoming one of the first countries in the European Union (EU) to launch a pilot artificial intelligence (AI) environment, known as an "AI sandbox". The space will allow Lithuanian technology companies to safely design, test and develop AI solutions before bringing them to market. This will enable the country's businesses to accelerate innovation and compete in the global marketplace.

The government has approved new regulations to speed up the implementation of the EU's AI regulation. The Innovation Agency and the Communications Regulatory Authority will be the main bodies responsible for this area. Their aim is to help start-ups and other businesses get support, and to ensure that AI solutions are reliable and safe for users.

"AI technologies have huge potential for our economy. By creating a 'sandbox', we are opening a space where businesses can safely test their innovations and consumers can be sure that AI products meet all safety requirements," said Aušrinė Armonaitė, Minister of the Economy and Innovation.

"This new approach will allow Lithuanian companies to more quickly seize the opportunities offered by the AI, while entrepreneurs can feel more confident that their technologies meet European standards. In addition, the Innovation Agency will assess bodies that want to provide certification services for AI systems across Europe. This will help to further strengthen the country's innovation ecosystem," said Erika Kuročkina, Vice-Minister of the  Economy and Innovation.

The amendments adopted by the government also set out a different role for the Innovation Agency, which, together with the Communications Regulatory Authority, will be the main body responsible for implementing the EU's Artificial Intelligence Act. The Innovation Agency has been designated as the national notifying authority, while the Communications Regulatory Authority will act as the market supervisor and single point of contact. 

The Innovation Agency will assess compliance with the requirements of the AI Act for bodies wishing to become Notified Bodies and provide assessment services for AI systems across the EU. Notified Bodies - companies, research and academic institutions - will carry out conformity assessment and certification of high-risk AI systems. This will contribute to the reliability and safety of AI systems placed on the market or products incorporating them.

The Communications Regulatory Authority will carry out market surveillance of AI systems. This is particularly important given the rapid advances in AI technologies. 

The EU Artificial Intelligence Act establishes common rules for the use of artificial intelligence in all EU Member States. It came into force on 2 August this year. With certain exceptions, it will apply from 2 August 2026. 

These amendments, which are included in the Law on Technology and Innovation and the Law on Information Society Services, have yet to be approved by the Seimas.