Colombia and Ecuador face debates over artificial intelligence regulation

In Colombia, the American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham Colombia) has urged caution regarding proposed legislation for artificial intelligence. During a technical meeting with the House of Representatives, the organization argued that rapid technological evolution should not trigger rushed regulation. AmCham suggested evaluating existing legal frameworks—such as data protection, consumer rights, and intellectual property—to identify actual gaps rather than imposing new, rigid obligations that could hinder innovation for startups and small businesses.

In Ecuador, the National Assembly has voted to archive a proposed artificial intelligence law. The decision followed a report from the Commission on Education, Culture, Science, Technology, Innovation, and Ancestral Knowledge, which cited technical and legal concerns. The commission warned that the proposal lacked adaptive governance mechanisms and could increase public spending through new institutional obligations. Critics of the bill noted that rigid regulations might quickly become obsolete and create barriers for technological investment.

Opposition legislators in Ecuador criticized the archiving of the bill, arguing it leaves a legal vacuum regarding human rights and biometric surveillance. They emphasized the need for ethical and sovereign regulation to protect citizens, particularly minors, from automated decision-making and mass surveillance.