China plans leading role in global AI race on standards and computing power push
- Three-year plan puts artificial intelligence at the centre of Beijing’s ambitions to achieve hi-tech self-reliance and catch up with the US
- AI is seen as a game-changer amid mounting economic challenges, a shrinking workforce and American sanctions on key technologies
Work on “general, foundational, ethical, security and privacy standards” in large models and generative AI will also be intensified, according to a document released by the office of Central Cyberspace Affairs Commission, along with the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology and State Administration for Market Regulation.
In an accompanying statement, the cyberspace commission – Beijing’s top internet watchdog – said the plan is aimed at addressing challenges such as ineffective application of existing standards in the bureaucracy, as well as a need to build China’s global standing.
“There is a lack of coordination across departments, and issues such as missing, misplaced and conflicting standards have arisen from time to time,” the commission said.
“Implementation is not effective enough, the tendency to prioritise development over application is still pronounced, while global influence is insufficient and more efforts are needed to enhance expertise, participation and high-quality contribution.”