Chinese president Xi Jinping would have declared artificial intelligence (AI) a cornerstone of the next technological revolution, urging China to grasp a competitive advantage in this transformer area. Speaking at a high -level meeting of the Communist Party focused on emerging technologies, XI stressed that AI reshapes human production and lifestyles, positioning it as a strategic priority for the global ambitions of China. His remarks, reported by Xinhua managed by the State, underline the determination of Beijing to direct the race of AI while navigating on the growing international tensions on its technological progress.
XI called to take advantage of the unique China resource mobilization system to stimulate AI innovation, emphasizing self -sufficiency and development focused on applications. He pleaded for a balanced approach, promoting AI growth in a way that is “beneficial, safe and fair”. Recognizing gaps in fundamental theories and basic technologies, XI has urged accelerated efforts in scientific research, industrial applications and regulatory executives to ensure that China retains control of AI and governance. “We have to advance science-technology innovation in depth and firmly grasp the initiative,” he said, reporting a long-term vision to fill the gap with world leaders like the United States.
The ambitions of China AI are part of a wider thrust to dominate emerging technologies. In recent years, the country has increased investments in AI, quantum IT and electric vehicles (VE), emerging as a world leader in the production of electric vehicles. The Chinese army has also started to integrate AI into non -combat applications, such as logistics and surveillance, which raises concerns among Western nations concerning potential double -use capacities. According to a 2024 report by the Center for Strategic and International Studies, investments in Chinese AI reached $ 25 billion in 2023, just behind the United States, companies supported by the state leading a large part of the progress.
A notable example of the prowess of Chinese AI is Deepseek, a low-cost AI model developed by the Chinese technology company High-Flyer. Launched at the beginning of 2025, Deepseek drew global attention for its affordability and its performance, positioning it as a competitor of Western models like those of Openai. However, the tool has aroused controversy. On April 17, the American chamber selective committee on strategic competition described Deepseek a “deep threat” for national security, alleging ties with the Communist Party and accusing it of having undermined American technological leadership. The Committee’s report informed concerns about data confidentiality and potential military applications, reflecting wider anxieties concerning the growing influence of China in AI.
The counterposter against Deepseek has not been limited to American countries such as India, Japan and Australia imposed restrictions on its use by government representatives, citing the risks of data leaks and espionage. The Ministry of India for electronics and information technology, for example, reported Deepseek data collection practices as a potential violation of its personal data protection law in 2024. These restrictions fueled Beijing accusations that the West and its allies polish trade and technology. The spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry, Lin Jian, recently condemned prohibitions, arguing that they “suffocate innovation and distort global cooperation”.
Trump prices and the new Cold War
XI’s push for AI leadership is involved in the midst of an American-Chinese technological rivalry, often described as a new Cold War. The United States has tightened export controls on advanced semiconductors and AI technologies, aimed at limiting China access to critical components. In response, China has doubled on interior innovation, companies like Huawei and Baidu making progress in the development of AI fleas despite Western sanctions. An analysis in 2025 of the Brookings Institution noted that the concentration of China on applied AI – such as facial recognition and intelligent cities – gave it an advantage in real deployments, even if it is late in basic research.
However, Chinese AI strategy faces challenges. Experts highlight a shortage of high -level and renowned talents on state -oriented investments as potential strangles. From an international point of view, the AI of China is both an opportunity and a concern. Developing countries in Africa and Southeast Asia have welcomed affordable Chinese AI tools, which offer profitable solutions for health care, agriculture and education. However, the fears of data sovereignty and dependence on Chinese technology have aroused calls for stricter surveillance. The European Union, for example, explores a “third way” in AI governance, balancing innovation with ethical standards to counter American and Chinese domination.
Chinese manufacturing strategy
XI’s vision for AI reflects China’s broader objective of achieving technological self -sufficiency by 2035, a target integrated into its 14th five -year plan. With initiatives like the “Made in China 2025” strategy, Beijing also positions AI as an engine of economic growth and geopolitical influence. However, the path to follow is fraught with risks, from the climbing of trade disputes to ethical dilemmas surrounding the monitoring of AI and autonomous systems.