A Comparative Analysis of Artificial Intelligence Adoption Rates: Romania vs. The European Union (2024-2026)

This paper explores the pattern trends and drivers of the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies by enterprises focusing on Romania and the European Union (EU) member states. Using Eurostat, OECD metrics, and relevant literature, Romania is always among the lowest adopters of AI technologies by enterprises in the EU. In 2025, it is projected that 5.21% of Romanian enterprises will adopt AI, compared to the EU average of 19.95% and to the leaders, Denmark with 42.03% and Finland with 37.82%. The paper uses a comparative approach, anchored in the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and the Technology-Organization-Environment (TOE) framework, to determine the structural, organizational, and environmental factors that decelerate Romania's adoption of AI. These include, among others, the lack of relevant digital skills, an immature ICT layer, an under-investment from the state, and low organizational preparedness. In addition, the paper analyses the implications of the EU AI Act (Regulation EU 2024-1689) on enterprises and how it will affect compliance and adoption. The research indicates that to close the AI adoption gap in Romania, a combination of policy changes, investment in digital skills, and organizational development to the extent that it complies with EU digital decade goals is needed.