The Boao Forum for Asia 2025 opened this week in Hainan Province, with China’s artificial intelligence ambitions emerging as a focal point for global attendees. Under the theme "Asia in the Changing World: Toward a Shared Future," discussions highlighted how AI innovation could reshape industries and foster international cooperation.
China's 2017 AI Development Plan is bearing fruit, with over 200 large-scale AI models now operational and generative AI services attracting 600 million users nationwide. Secretary General Li Baodong emphasized the forum’s role in rebuilding global trust through technological collaboration.
A unique case from Chinese driving schools illustrates this progress: AI systems now monitor student drivers without physical instructors, showcasing practical applications of the technology. Meanwhile, strict regulations require security assessments for AI services and mandatory labeling of synthetic content – measures positioning China as a pioneer in ethical tech governance.
The country’s 2021 AI Ethical Norms prioritize transparency and social equity, mandating that algorithms avoid discrimination while promoting broad-based societal benefits. This framework aligns with China’s broader strategy to lead in "safe and controllable" AI deployment across healthcare, agriculture, and industrial modernization.
For global investors and policymakers, the forum signals China’s determination to shape international AI standards while driving economic transformation. As cross-border AI partnerships expand, Beijing’s emphasis on regulatory oversight offers both challenges and opportunities for international stakeholders navigating this rapidly evolving sector.
