China has actively advanced the development of AI through a range of policy initiatives. In 2017, the State Council released the “Next Generation Artificial Intelligence Development Plan (2017),” which outlined strategic objectives for AI progress.
In 2023, the Ministry of Science and Technology initiated a special program called “AI for Science” to expedite innovation and facilitate the widespread application of AI in key industries. China’s ambitious industrial plan, Made in China 2025, identified AI as a crucial sector, aiming to establish global leadership in the field by 2030.
The government also promotes the development of generative AI technology, both domestically and through international collaboration. Companies are encouraged to adopt secure and trustworthy software, tools, computing resources, and data resources to support their advancements in this domain. These measures underscore the government’s commitment to nurturing a secure and dependable AI ecosystem while fostering innovation and collaboration in generative AI technology.
Furthermore, local governments at various levels are dedicated to enhancing AI development. Prominent cities like Shenzhen and Shanghai have introduced their own regulations. An intriguing aspect of Shanghai’s AI Regulation is its provision for a certain level of leniency towards minor infractions, aimed at encouraging the exploration of scientific frontiers and inspiring innovation.
China has made remarkable progress and established a competitive advantage across multiple facets of the AI industry. The nation has demonstrated its prowess in academic research papers, patents, cross-border investments, and global funding for AI.
Projections suggest that China’s investment in AI is expected to reach a significant sum of US$26.7 billion by 2026. This investment is estimated to comprise approximately 8.9 percent of the total global AI investment, solidifying China’s position as the second-largest recipient of AI investment worldwide. These statistics underscore China’s strong dedication and increasing influence in the realm of AI, both domestically and globally.
China Index position: Positive outlook for the advancement of AI technologies in China
China Index sets a highly favorable outlook for the development of AI technologies in China. This positive assessment reflects the country’s significant investments, robust research capabilities, and growing ecosystem for AI innovation.
China has been proactive in promoting AI development through strategic initiatives, policy support, and fostering collaboration between academia, industry, and government sectors. These concerted efforts have yielded substantial results, with China emerging as a global leader in AI advancements.
The China Index highlights the country’s impressive achievements in various AI-related indicators, such as research output, patent filings, talent pool, and venture capital investments. China’s research institutions and universities have produced a significant number of influential academic papers in the field, contributing to the global knowledge base of AI.
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Moreover, the country’s vibrant startup ecosystem has witnessed a surge in AI-focused companies, attracting substantial investments from both domestic and international sources. This influx of funding has fueled the growth and commercialization of AI technologies across diverse sectors, including healthcare, finance, manufacturing, and transportation.
The positive outlook set by the China Index indicates that China is well-positioned to maintain its momentum and further strengthen its leadership in AI development. With continued support from government policies, an expanding talent pool, and a conducive environment for innovation, China is expected to drive breakthroughs and transformative applications in AI technologies, delivering significant economic and societal benefits domestically and globally.