China Stresses Expanding AI in New Development Push
China has reaffirmed its commitment to accelerating artificial intelligence (AI) development, placing greater emphasis on technological innovation, commercial adoption and international cooperation as part of its broader economic strategy.
Premier Li Qiang chaired a State Council executive meeting on Monday, where officials reviewed the progress of AI development, assessed the current foreign trade situation and discussed measures to strengthen China’s position as a global trading powerhouse.
The meeting also reviewed and approved an action plan on carbon peaking and a national health plan for the 15th Five-Year Plan period, covering 2026 to 2030.
China Prioritises AI Expansion
The meeting highlighted the need to take the initiative in advancing AI development. Officials called for faster breakthroughs in key technologies, expanded construction of ultra-large-scale intelligent computing clusters and stronger support through talent development and financial investment.
In addition, the government stressed the importance of accelerating the large-scale commercial application of AI-powered products and services. The meeting also called for maintaining strong AI security standards while deepening international cooperation on AI governance.
The renewed focus reflects China’s ambition to strengthen its AI capabilities and encourage wider adoption of advanced technologies across industries.
Foreign Trade Remains a Key Focus
Alongside AI development, the State Council discussed measures to support foreign trade. Officials stressed the need to expand imports of high-quality goods and services while promoting more balanced growth in both imports and exports.
The meeting also called for improving the global influence of Chinese goods through stronger branding and higher value-added products. Furthermore, it urged greater efforts to strengthen trade in services and digital trade as part of the country’s long-term economic strategy.
Green Development and Health Priorities
The meeting underscored the importance of creating new growth drivers through the green economy. Officials called for advancing the green and low-carbon transition of industries while encouraging environmentally friendly production methods and lifestyles.
In the healthcare sector, the State Council emphasised the need to establish a comprehensive full-life-cycle health service system. It also called for vigorous development of the health industry, a broader supply of health products and stricter quality and safety supervision to ensure high standards across the sector.
The decisions form part of preparations for the 15th Five-Year Plan and underline China’s intention to combine technological innovation, trade development, environmental sustainability and healthcare improvements in its long-term national strategy.
