As China advances its 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030), artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a cornerstone for developing new quality productive forces – a strategic framework aimed at reshaping economic growth through technological innovation. Experts highlight the critical role of 'AI Plus' integration in driving industrial transformation and securing global competitiveness.
At the heart of this initiative lies the synergistic development of foundational technologies: AI models, computing power, and data infrastructure. While China leads in AI model development, challenges persist in optimizing computing resource distribution and data quality. Liang Zheng of Tsinghua University emphasizes the need for "a nationally integrated computing power scheduling system" to address regional disparities and enhance efficiency.
The strategy extends beyond technical upgrades, calling for institutional reforms to support AI innovation. Proposed measures include:
Agile governance frameworks with regulatory sandboxes
Market-driven breakthroughs in core technologies
Cross-sector integration in R&D, manufacturing, and public services
International collaboration forms a key pillar of the 'AI Plus' vision, with China seeking to establish global technical standards while addressing digital divides through bilateral partnerships. This dual focus on domestic capacity-building and global leadership positions AI as both an economic catalyst and diplomatic tool in China's development roadmap.
