Laws · European Union

EU Product Liability Directive (2024)

Updates the EU's no-fault liability rules for defective products. It states that software, including AI systems, is a product, so people harmed by defective software or AI can claim compensation from the maker. It applies to products placed on the market after 9 December 2026, through national laws.

In forceNext: Transposition deadline; 1985 directive repealed; new rules cover products placed on the market after this date, Dec 9, 2026 (in 66 days).

Jurisdiction: European Union
Type: Law
Official title: Directive (EU) 2024/2853 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 October 2024 on liability for defective products and repealing Council Directive 85/374/EEC

What this means for you

If you build AI

Software and AI systems count as products: if a defect causes damage, you can be liable without proof of fault.
It covers products placed on the market after 9 Dec 2026; free and open-source software supplied outside commercial activity is excluded.

If you deploy AI

If you integrate AI or software into products you sell in the EU, you may be treated as a manufacturer for liability purposes.
National laws implementing the directive are due by 9 Dec 2026; check the rules in each country where you sell.

If you use AI

If defective software or an AI system causes you damage, you can claim compensation from the manufacturer for products placed on the market after 9 Dec 2026.
The 1985 rules still apply to products placed on the market before that date.

Key dates

Nov 18, 2024PastPublished in the Official Journal of the EUSource
Dec 8, 2024PastEnters into forceSource
Dec 9, 2026in 66 daysTransposition deadline; 1985 directive repealed; new rules cover products placed on the market after this dateSource

Status history

Dec 8, 2024In forceMember States must transpose it by 9 December 2026Source
Oct 23, 2024PassedPublished in the Official Journal on 18 November 2024Source

In the Drops

No Drop has covered this law yet.