China unveils three-year program for artificial intelligence growth

Humanoid robot Jiajia produced by University of Science and Technology of China is displayed at an exhibition stage during the 4th China (Shanghai) International Technology Fair 2016 in Shanghai, April 21, 2016. [Photo/Agencies]

China will speed up the development of its artificial intelligence (AI) sector and create a market worth more than 100 billion yuan ($15.26 billion) over the next three years, the National Development and Reform Commission said in a statement released on its website Monday.

By 2018, China shall build platforms for fundamental AI resources and innovation and make breakthroughs on basic core technology, said the three-year implementation program for "Internet Plus" artificial intelligence.

The plan is formulated jointly by the National Development and Reform Commission, the Ministry of Science and Technology, the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, and the Cyberspace Administration of China.

According to the website, the country shall be in line with global AI technology and industries by 2018. At key regions, the country will cultivate some global leading AI enterprises and set up an innovative, open, cooperative, green and safe AI industrial ecology.

The country will cultivate and develop emerging artificial intelligence industries, promote innovation in intelligent products and enhance the intelligence level of terminal products.

The program will involve key projects such as intelligent home appliances, smart automobiles, intelligent unmanned systems, intelligent wearable devices and robots.

The country will also offer some guarantee measures involving financial support, intellectual property protection, talents, and international cooperation, the program said.

Last year, China unveiled the "Internet Plus" strategy to integrate mobile internet, cloud computing, big data and the Internet of Things with traditional industries and fuel economic growth.

Xinhua contributed to this story.