New EU requirements under AI Act threaten to add complexity to importing AI hardware

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The European Union AI Act will increase compliance requirements for businesses deploying AI systems in the EU, with wider implications expected for the global trade of physical AI infrastructure.

Specialist Importers and Exporters of Record, Mouse & Bear, say the increased emphasis on documentation and transparency is likely to influence how AI hardware is moved internationally.

The AI Act, set out by the EU, first came into force in August 2024 and introduced a risk-based framework for AI systems, ranging from minimal to unacceptable.

As of August 2026, ‘high-risk’ AI systems will need detailed technical documents to ensure it meets strict data and operational standards to be used in the EU.

“As AI systems become more regulated, it’s likely to influence how the physical hardware behind them is documented, tracked and moved too. This can add an extra layer of complication to the customs and import process into EU markets” says Gemma Stunt, Sales Manager at Mouse & Bear.

When importing AI infrastructure into EU countries, businesses will now need clearer descriptions of this hardware, what it supports and whether it is intended for use in high-risk AI systems.

Alongside this, companies will need to ensure their AI systems are fully compliant, registered and documented before the hardware needed to power them can pass into the market.

“Documentation has always been a key part of technology imports, but this now extends to the systems that technology powers. Without all documentation in place, hardware shipments could face delays, fines or even rejection at the border. That’s why businesses must consider compliance much earlier and ensure all documentation is correct before shipment” adds Gemma.

Mouse & Bear are a specialist Importer or Record (IOR) and Exporter of Record (EOR) for technology, helping ship medical devices, cloud computing technology, AI hardware, telecoms equipment and more to over 160 countries.

With over 10 years’ experience working in the global technology market, Mouse & Bear provide bespoke customs support and maintain complete control over documentation to help shipments pass through customs without a hitch.

“As legislation around AI systems increases, we expect to see more detailed checks on the hardware behind them. We will work closely with our clients to ensure all required documentation is in place so AI technology shipments pass through customs quickly, safely and legally” concludes Gemma.