China: AI evolution promoted as key driver of productivity

China Positions Artificial Intelligence as a Catalyst for National Growth and Innovation

In a rapidly evolving technological landscape, China is asserting its leadership role in artificial intelligence (AI), positioning it as a crucial engine for economic development and industrial transformation. During the recent World Economic Forum’s Annual Meeting of the New Champions held in Tianjin, top experts and entrepreneurs highlighted the nation’s strategic focus on AI as a means to boost productivity, foster innovation, and remain at the forefront of global technological advancement.

A Thriving AI Ecosystem Driving Economic Momentum

China’s robust AI ecosystem has become a cornerstone of its burgeoning transformation into an innovation-driven economy. The country’s extensive application of AI across multiple sectors is not only enhancing efficiency but also reshaping traditional industries such as manufacturing, research, and services. Industry leaders emphasize that AI’s integration is inevitable; enterprises that fail to adapt risk being left behind in an increasingly competitive global market.

Industry leaders like Zhou Yunjie, CEO of Haier Group, predict that AI will lead the most significant technological revolution in the coming half-century. “AI deployment is currently focused on manufacturing, R&D, sales, procurement, and customer support,” Zhou noted. “In the future, every industry will incorporate AI, and those that do not will become obsolete.” His company has invested heavily in developing advanced language models and applying AI solutions to fields ranging from household appliances to industrial internet platforms.

China’s Strategic Position and Academic Advancements

According to Zhu Min, a former senior official at the International Monetary Fund, China is poised to make substantial progress in AI within the next 18 to 24 months, leveraging its vast consumer market and diverse industrial landscape. The country has surpassed the United States in the number of published AI research papers, particularly those focusing on practical applications tailored to industry needs.

Government Initiatives and Future Plans

China’s government underscores its commitment to AI through initiatives such as “AI Plus,” which aims to integrate digital innovations with manufacturing prowess and market expansion. The government seeks to support large-scale AI models and promote the development of smart manufacturing tools and intelligent terminals, fueling a comprehensive digital upgrade.

A Growing Global Leader in AI Innovation

Samantha Zhu, Chairperson of Accenture Greater China, highlights China’s emergence as a leading force in technological innovation. With breakthroughs in AI and robotics, China demonstrates its increasing capacity to develop critical technologies vital for long-term competitiveness. She notes that the current AI boom, driven by open-source language models, is energizing businesses to integrate AI into operations,