China champions AI development for global well-being

China is positioning itself as a leader in the global advancement of artificial intelligence, emphasizing a commitment to sound, safe, and orderly development for the benefit of humanity. The upcoming 2026 World AI Conference (WAIC) and High-Level Meeting on Global AI Governance in Shanghai, scheduled for July 17-20, is set to be a pivotal event. President Xi Jinping is expected to attend the opening ceremony and deliver a keynote address, where he will detail China's policies, stance, and proposals on AI development and governance.

AI is recognized as a transformative technology driving a new era of industrial revolution and reshaping human life. While AI innovation presents significant opportunities, it also poses complex challenges, making global AI governance a critical necessity. China advocates for a people-centered approach and the principle of "AI for good and for all." Leveraging its vast data resources, extensive industrial ecosystem, diverse application scenarios, and substantial market potential, China is actively integrating AI with industrial innovation to foster smart industries and enhance the quality of life for its citizens.

The nation has made considerable progress in AI capabilities, with advancements in large models, intelligent agents, and AI chips. China's core AI industry, comprising over 6,200 enterprises, surpassed 1.2 trillion yuan (176.7 billion U.S. dollars) in scale in 2025. The country anticipates an annual output of over 100,000 humanoid robots this year. China is also actively pursuing international collaboration, advocating through its Global AI Governance Initiative for collective efforts in risk prevention and the establishment of governance frameworks, norms, and standards based on broad consensus. This initiative aims to ensure AI technologies are secure, reliable, controllable, and equitable, while also working to bridge the AI and digital divides through its AI Capacity-Building Action Plan for Good and for All.