China has been making great efforts in scientific and technological innovation due to profound changes in both domestic and international environments. More recently, China displayed several advanced technologies at a global Artificial Intelligence expo.
The technologies include natural language processing, computer vision, speech recognition and machine learning related to the artificial intelligence (AI) sector. A range of tech was on display, including AI hardware, AI core technologies, AI technology applications, 5G+AI intelligent products and AI innovations and achievements.
Shenzhen Artificial Intelligence Industry Association (SAIIA) released and compiled the White Book on the Development of Artificial Intelligence in 2021 and a research report on the nation’s growth enterprises in the AI sector. Also on display was the latest academic research achievements in the field of AI through in-depth research on the system, industry, technology and application of AI. The white book discusses the challenges in developing AI and predicts the future trends of AI development.
The research report features interviews with experts, scholars and enterprise executives in the AI field, as well as discussions on the latest progress, achievements and development trends of the industry. According to the white book, the number of AI enterprises in China ranks second in the world. By the end of 2020, there were 6,425 AI-related companies in China, with a year-on-year growth of 25.37%.
Shenzhen gathered 1,318 AI-related enterprises, as of the end of 2020, with an increase of 25.2% year on year and is the second-highest ranked in the country. Beijing and Shanghai took first and third place, respectively.
Moreover, China is calling for a thorough understanding of the key role of scientific and technological innovation in high-quality development and the new development paradigm. As reported by OpenGov Asia, China held the 18th meeting of the national leading group on reform of the scientific and technological system and building of an innovation system in Beijing.
In compiling the national scientific and technological innovation plan for the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-25) period, it was determined that attention should be paid to shoring up weak links and strengthening the foundation within a good strategic blueprint. According to an article, the 14th Five-Year Plan elevates innovation and technology development to core national priorities and critical to achieving technological self-reliance. This marks a significant shift in priorities towards industrial and national security, as well as reduced reliance on imported technologies.
Investment in technology will go into overdrive and will undoubtedly focus on frontier fields that have already been highlighted for further exploration: artificial intelligence, quantum information, integrated circuits, life and health science, neuroscience, genetics, deep earth and sea exploration, and aerospace technology. There also will be measures to encourage traditional sectors to move up the value chain; strengthening improved farming quality and competitiveness; as well as a greater emphasis on protecting intellectual property rights and talent attraction.
Technology and innovation have become the driving forces. As an emerging tech giant, China has demonstrated it can be a leading innovator both globally and domestically. China is leading the development of new industries built around digitalisation, artificial intelligence, big data, fifth-generation telecommunications networking (5G), nanotechnology, biotechnology, robotics, and quantum computing.
Science and technology development should keep up with leading global trends, it was felt. It needs to serve as the main engine of economic competition, the needs of the country, and benefit people’s health and livelihoods. These goals will be realised through the in-depth implementation of the strategies of rejuvenating the nation through science and education, cultivating talent, and promoting innovation-driven development. This will enable China to improve its innovation capabilities and speed up its transformation into a scientific and technological power.