In a notable shift in China’s artificial intelligence (ai) sector, Professor Zhang Ying, the vice dean of the Guanghua School of Management at Peking University, emphasized the transition from a “technology-driven” to a “value-driven” ai market during a seminar on China’s economic situation and policy analysis held in Beijing. This transition signifies a strategic move towards the practical implementation and application of ai technology.
China’s “ai Plus” Initiative: A Departure from Technology-driven Approach
For the first time, China’s government work report for the year mentioned the launch of an “ai Plus initiative.” This initiative symbolizes a departure from solely focusing on technological advancements to empowering the entire spectrum of ai, from research and development (R&D) to practical application and industrial development. Professor Zhang emphasized the importance of integrating ai into business processes and product functionalities to expedite industrial development and identify opportunities unique to the Chinese market.
Implementation Strategies for ai Plus Initiative
To effectively implement the ai Plus initiative, Professor Zhang provided several recommendations. Firstly, he emphasized the need for a careful assessment of the technological and business impacts of ai Plus applications. He also advocated for empowering key sectors with ai technologies while avoiding over-expectations in the short term. The professor underscored the importance of focusing on real–world applications and market needs, highlighting the significance of market testing and emphasizing the importance of evaluation in the broader market beyond initial government procurement.
Expanding Market Demand: Consumer Purchasing Power and Talent Cultivation
In addition to implementation strategies, Professor Zhang stressed the importance of increasing residents’ income to expand market demand. Greater purchasing power among consumers enables broader access to advanced technologies, thus fostering the development of high-quality products and services. Furthermore, attention should be directed towards the investment cycle and talent cultivation in ai. Continuous investment and patience are essential for the industrial integration of ai, with long-term, stable support from both the government and private sector crucial for steady technological progress and addressing emerging challenges.
Investing in Education and Research: The Linchpin of Success
Against the backdrop of China’s renewed focus on invigorating the nation through science and education, as outlined in the 2024 government work report, the importance of talent cultivation in ai becomes even more pronounced. With talent being the linchpin for success in the competitive ai landscape, strategic investments in education and research are paramount for sustaining innovation and technological advancement.
The transition of China’s ai market from a technology-driven to a value-driven approach represents a significant milestone in the country’s technological landscape. With the emergence of the ai Plus initiative and a renewed focus on practical implementation, China is poised to leverage ai technologies across various sectors, driving innovation and economic growth. However, effective implementation requires careful assessment, strategic empowerment of key sectors, and sustained investments in talent and research.
As China continues to navigate the complexities of the ai landscape, a commitment to innovation and collaboration will be essential in realizing the full potential of ai technologies. The successful implementation of the value-driven approach depends on China’s ability to maintain a balance between technological prowess and practical application, ensuring that economic gains remain at the forefront of its ai development strategy.
