China’s generative artificial intelligence (AI) sector is witnessing rapid growth, with more than 190 service models now registered and available for public use. Zhuang Rongwen, chief of the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC), announced on Monday that these models have amassed over 600 million registered users, underscoring the nation’s dynamic and orderly development in AI technologies and applications.
Zhuang emphasized the government’s commitment to fostering industrial development, technological progress, and enhanced security controls in this critical field. He highlighted the importance of balancing high-quality development with high-level security, ensuring that advancements in AI contribute positively to society while mitigating potential risks.
In July 2023, China made global headlines by issuing the world’s first set of provisional management rules for generative AI services. This regulatory framework aims to guide the responsible development and deployment of AI technologies across the country.
Looking ahead, Zhuang outlined key policy priorities to bolster China’s AI capabilities. The focus will be on independent research and development of computing chips and algorithm frameworks, the creation of high-quality Chinese language corpora, and increased investment in foundational AI capacities and self-developed large models.
To support innovation and reduce barriers for enterprises, regulatory agencies plan to optimize the filing procedures for large models, thereby lowering compliance costs. Zhuang also highlighted the government’s intention to promote the application of generative AI technologies in sectors such as manufacturing, agriculture, education, and healthcare. This integration aims to empower the real economy and rejuvenate traditional industries through technological advancement.
Addressing security concerns within the AI sector, authorities will guide service providers to deliver high-quality services that are safe, reliable, controllable, and fair. Companies will be encouraged to strengthen self-assessment and daily management practices to prevent risks related to personal data breaches, the generation of false information, and intellectual property infringement caused by technology misuse.
The CAC is set to collaborate with other regulatory bodies to enhance legislation and develop coordinated governance mechanisms for AI security. This approach includes government regulation, industry self-discipline, enterprise self-regulation, and public supervision. Zhuang noted that active international cooperation will be pursued to address global challenges in AI governance.
Reflecting on progress since 2012, Zhuang highlighted the development of the world’s largest and technologically advanced information infrastructure in China, along with the enactment of more than 150 pieces of legislation in the cyberspace domain. He stressed the need for a robust cyberspace ecosystem, achievable through systematic, law-based, and comprehensive governance, and by addressing underlying issues.
Future efforts will focus on adopting and refining relevant laws and regulations to establish a comprehensive legal framework for cyberspace governance. Enhancing coordination mechanisms for law enforcement in cyberspace, especially in cross-sector and interdepartmental contexts, is also a priority.
Zhuang emphasized the importance of security assessments for new internet technologies and applications. Authorities aim to accelerate the adoption of innovative technologies while effectively safeguarding ideological security and protecting the legitimate rights and interests of internet users.
The CAC will continue initiatives to regulate the activities of internet opinion leaders and multi-channel network (MCN) institutions, cracking down on illegal online activities to maintain a healthy online environment.
Reference(s):
China sees dynamic generative AI services with 190 models in use
cgtn.com
