European Union: Council Regulation on amending Council Regulation 2021/1173 as regards Artificial Intelligence gigafactories enters into force

On 20 January 2026, the Council Regulation on amending Council Regulation 2021/1173 as regards Artificial Intelligence gigafactories enters into force, one day following its publication in the Official Journal. The Council Regulation sets the framework for the activities of the EuroHPC Joint Undertaking (EuroHPC JU), as well as updates the EuroHPC JU governance structure. It aims to establish Artificial Intelligence gigafactories in Europe and establish a quantum pillar in the activities of the EuroHPC JU. AI gigafactories will be supported through public-private partnerships. The Council Regulation also outlines the framework for establishing and operating such gigafactories, as well as rules for funding and procurement. The Council Regulation allows unused EU funds to be redirected to the project. Finally, the Council Regulation introduces safeguards for the participation of third countries.