China to intensify R&D in artificial intelligence

China will spare no effort in promoting the research, development, and iterative upgrading of next-generation artificial intelligence products this year, including brain-computer interface, autonomous vehicles and robots, as part of a broader strategy to integrate AI with the manufacturing sector, the nation's top industry regulator said on Thursday.

Minister of Industry and Information Technology Li Lecheng said on the sidelines of the fourth session of the 14th National People's Congress that the ministry will act decisively on the Government Work Report's call to foster a "two-way pursuit" between AI and manufacturing. 

Emphasizing China's unique advantages in driving this industrial evolution, Li said that "with a complete range of industrial categories, a vast pool of innovative talent and a continuously improving innovation ecosystem, we are confident that more world-class intelligent products will be developed and manufactured on this fertile land".

The minister outlined a comprehensive roadmap for AI integration across multiple facets of the economy and daily life, with the consumer sector being a priority where the ministry aims to accelerate the development of AI-powered personal computers, AI mobile phones and smart home appliances to better meet people's needs.

Beyond consumer goods, Li highlighted the push for frontier technological breakthroughs and called for concentrated efforts to advance next-generation AI products, including brain-computer interfaces, autonomous driving vehicles and various forms of robotics. These areas are targeted for dedicated technological breakthroughs and rapid iterative upgrades.

Li said the ministry will vigorously support the development of intelligent agricultural machinery and smart medical devices, ensuring that a new wave of intelligent products serves the diverse needs of various industries and sectors, boosting productivity and service quality across the board.