On April 29, 2025, Chinese President Xi Jinping visited the Shanghai Foundation Model Innovation Center, embracing the city’s pivotal role in the future of artificial intelligence (AI) development. This visit, occurring shortly after a crucial Political Bureau study session on AI, underscores the urgency and importance the Chinese leadership places on advancing this strategic sector.
The Significance of AI in China’s Strategic Landscape
During his time at the innovation center, Xi emphasized that AI technology is rapidly evolving, entering what he termed an “explosive growth” phase. This assertion reflects the broader global recognition of AI as a transformative force in industries and daily life. The Chinese leadership views AI as a cornerstone of the upcoming technological revolution and industrial transformation, altering the very fabric of how society operates.
Prominent figures in the tech community echoed these sentiments. Zhang Xiaorong, director of the Cutting-Edge Technology Research Institute, highlighted that the emphasis on AI by the Communist Party of China (CPC) exemplifies its strategic significance in national development.
Shanghai’s Mission and Innovations in AI
Xi Jinping’s call for Shanghai to emerge as a leading global tech innovation center resonates with the city’s existing ecosystem. The Shanghai Foundation Model Innovation Center, home to over 100 enterprises, serves as a critical incubator for startups and technological advancements. The president’s participation in discussions with young innovators highlights his commitment to fostering a culture of creativity and entrepreneurship among the youth.
Xi’s visit allowed him to engage directly with the latest AI technologies. By trying on smart glasses in an AI product experience store, he showcased a hands-on approach to understanding consumer technology’s trajectory and market trends. Such personal engagement not only underscores the leadership’s commitment but also serves to inspire the next generation of innovators.
Encouraging Innovation and Building Confidence
The sentiments expressed by Xi during his visit deeply resonated with industry leaders, many of whom were present at the innovation center. Xu Li, chairman and CEO of AI software giant SenseTime, remarked that the president’s statements foster a clear pathway for AI innovation, enhancing both social wellbeing and industrial upgrades through technology.
The dialogue also reinforced confidence among stakeholders in the tech ecosystem. For instance, Yan Junjie, founder of the AI startup MiniMax, expressed optimism regarding the rapid developments in AI and the unique opportunities it presents for Chinese enterprises.
China’s Global Competitiveness in AI
In recent years, China has made significant strides in technology innovation, reflecting positively in its global innovation ranking. Emerging sectors like robotics and AI are not just contributing to national growth but are expected to have far-reaching impacts on the global economy. The rise of companies like DeepSeek and Unitree Robotics exemplifies the momentum building within the sector.
Li Changan, a professor at the University of International Business and Economics, articulated China’s strengths: abundant talent and a strategic institutional framework conducive to innovation. He emphasized the need for continued focus on basic research and breakthroughs in core technologies such as advanced chips and software.
Structural Changes and Economic Impact
The first quarter of 2025 has already shown promising signs of growth in fixed-asset investments within the high-tech industry. Notable increases in investments indicate that the development of new quality productive forces is becoming a central pillar of China’s economic transformation. This shift reflects a broader strategy to integrate technological innovation with traditional industries, reinforcing the transition toward an innovation-driven economy.
The Road Ahead for AI in China
As China pushes forward with efforts to refine the use of LLMs (large language models) and boost overall productivity across industries, the focus remains on aligning technological advancements with societal needs. Xu Li’s vision for accelerated innovation emphasizes not just technological enhancements, but also a commitment to serving the daily needs of the public.
In conclusion, President Xi’s recent engagements in Shanghai depict a country at the forefront of AI innovation. With a strong emphasis on youth involvement and an ambitious vision for national development, China is positioning itself as a formidable player on the global tech stage. The support for AI development reflects not only a national priority but also a broader commitment to harnessing technology for sustainable social and economic progress.