Policy support for tech will focus on AI, “future industries”
In 2025, Beijing will focus tech support on a select group of emerging technologies.
- That's according to the Government Work Report (GWR), which Premier Li Qiang presented to the legislature (NPC) on Wednesday.
Support targets include "future industries," which Beijing identifies as:
- The low-altitude economy, biomanufacturing, quantum, embodied AI, and 6G.
In the near term, according to the GWR, AI is the key priority, with policymakers aiming to:
- Leverage AI for industrial upgrading, particularly to transform traditional manufacturing
- Support the "extensive application of large-scale AI models"
- Support the development of smart industrial equipment, AI-powered, internet-connected new energy vehicles, intelligent robots, and AI-powered smart phones
While none of this will come as a surprise to our regular readers, we do have a few thoughts:
One: If the state has its druthers, Chinese AI startups will have a great year.
- With AI positioned as a policy priority, AI firms can expect preferential policies, expanded financing access, and government-driven efforts to boost public adoption.
Two: Over the long term, Beijing is positioning firms to capitalize on the imminent convergence of AI and robotics.
- That means large chunks of state research funding will be directed at related areas.
Three: The US and China were neck-and-neck during the 5G race, but over the last couple of years, the speed and coverage of China's mobile networks have far outpaced the US.
- Will China have an advantage as the 6G race heats up?
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