The Battle for AI Supremacy: Inside China’s Global Strategy for AI Governance

In an era defined by rapid technological advancements, China’s approach to artificial intelligence (AI) governance and safety is becoming increasingly significant on the global stage. As nations grapple with the ethical and operational implications of AI deployment, China’s strategies are emerging as a focal point in international discussions.

The recent World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) held in Shanghai on July 26, 2025, served as a prominent platform for showcasing China’s evolving AI policy framework. Here, key stakeholders, including industry leaders and researchers, engaged in substantive discussions around global AI safety efforts—highlighting both the ambition and complexity of establishing a cohesive international governance model.

Amidst the absence of U.S. leadership in these dialogues, China, alongside other nations, is attempting to shape a collaborative agenda that seeks to address the critical challenges AI poses to society. This ongoing discourse not only underscores China’s pivotal role in future AI governance but also sheds light on the broader implications of AI safety protocols that are vital in our increasingly interconnected world.

Summary of China’s AI Policy

China’s approach to artificial intelligence (AI) governance is marked by a series of initiatives primarily led by Premier Li Qiang. His advocacy for a global AI governance framework underscores the country’s ambition to take a leading role in international AI policy.

Key Initiatives and Leadership:

Li Qiang has actively promoted the idea of establishing a global organization for AI cooperation, particularly emphasizing collaboration among nations to prevent monopolistic practices and ensure the equitable distribution of AI advancements. In his addresses at the World Artificial Intelligence Conference, he called for a comprehensive, open, and fair environment for AI development, aiming to include support for developing countries in enhancing their AI capabilities.

One of the foundational frameworks introduced is the Global AI Governance Action Plan, which outlines a 13-point agenda focusing on AI safety governance, the necessity for transparency in AI applications, and fostering cross-border cooperation in AI technology sharing.

Industry Perspectives on AI Safety:

While the government drives the AI governance agenda, responses from the Chinese AI industry reveal a mixed enthusiasm regarding AI safety measures. While some leaders, like Zhang Hongjiang from the Beijing Academy of Artificial Intelligence, advocate for rigorous standards to prevent the misuse of AI technologies, others express concerns that stringent regulations could stifle innovation. This divergence highlights a tension within the industry as companies navigate the balance between adherence to safety protocols and maintaining competitive edge.

In summary, China’s evolving AI policy reflects a strategic blend of proactive governance, international collaboration, and mixed industry sentiments regarding the implications of AI safety protocols and China AI regulation, shaping its positioning on the global stage.

China’s AI Safety Models

As of 2025, China is actively enhancing its artificial intelligence (AI) safety agenda through state-led initiatives and industry collaboration. The country aims to develop various models that address the risks associated with AI technologies, while also protecting sensitive information and competitive advantages.

Key AI Safety Policies and Frameworks

One key initiative is the AI Safety Governance Framework, launched by the National Technical Committee 260 on Cybersecurity in September 2024. This framework focuses on a people-centered approach and outlines principles to ensure responsible AI development. It encourages tech companies to disclose safety assessments but does not require detailed reporting compared to Western practices. Only three out of 13 leading AI developers in China have made safety assessment information available to the public (DLA Piper).

In addition, Chinese regulations require AI companies to provide comprehensive details about their algorithms, including objectives, design principles, and security self-assessments, to government authorities (AI Ethics Unwrapped). This high level of state oversight contrasts sharply with the less stringent regulations seen in the US and Europe.

Comparison with U.S. and European Practices

China’s approach to AI safety is typically more centralized than that of the United States and Europe. In the US, the regulatory environment is decentralized and relies heavily on self-governance within the industry, supported by measures such as the AI Bill of Rights and various executive orders. This can lead to inconsistencies in ethical considerations across sectors. On the other hand, the European Union has pursued comprehensive regulations, most notably the proposed AI Act, which uses a risk-based strategy to enforce safety and ethical compliance for AI applications (OXGS Report, Navirego).

While the US focuses on innovation-led growth with less emphasis on uniform safety standards, China’s strategy involves a systematic implementation of state-sanctioned safety protocols. These protocols reflect social values and national security priorities, showcasing the differences in governance approaches between East and West (LawReview.Tech, arXiv).

In summary, China’s AI safety models are robust and highly regulated, although they lack the transparency seen in US and European practices. This difference presents complex challenges for global cooperation on AI governance as nations address shared concerns about the ethics and safety of AI technologies.

User Adoption Data for AI Safety Models in China

The user adoption rates for AI safety models in China reflect a robust integration of AI technologies across various sectors, driven by strong governmental support and industry enthusiasm. Recent surveys and studies reveal key insights into how AI safety frameworks are being embraced by users and organizations:

1. High Levels of AI Utilization: A KPMG survey from 2025 indicated that 93% of employees in China are actively using AI tools in their workplaces. This figure stands in stark contrast to the global average of 58%, indicating a significant dependence on AI technologies. Moreover, 50% of these users engage with AI on a weekly or daily basis, showcasing a deep integration within daily operations.

   Source: KPMG 2025 Survey

2. High AI Maturity Rating: According to the 2024 Global AI Maturity Model by BSI, China achieved an impressive score of 4.25 out of 5. This score reflects the country’s extensive investment in AI technologies, comprehensive training programs, and high levels of engagement with suppliers, all contributing to a more mature AI landscape capable of responsibly adopting safety measures.

   Source: BSI Global AI Maturity Model

3. Pilot Projects for AI Safety: The Chinese government is actively launching pilot zones to implement AI applications under flexible regulatory guidelines. A notable example is the City Brain initiative in Hangzhou, developed in partnership with Alibaba, which utilizes AI to manage traffic flows and has reportedly reduced congestion by up to 15% in certain areas. These projects not only demonstrate practical applications of AI safety models but also serve as testing grounds for future policies.

   Source: GINC

4. Ethical Commitments: China’s Ministry of Science and Technology has published the “New Generation of Artificial Intelligence Ethics Code,” which emphasizes user protection, data privacy, and ethical standards in AI deployment. This guideline highlights the nation’s commitment to fostering a safe and responsible AI ecosystem.

   Source: Wikipedia – AI Industry in China

In summary, while specific user adoption rates for AI safety models from organizations such as the Chinese Academy of Sciences and Shanghai AI Lab may not be overtly detailed, the broader data indicates a significant commitment to AI integration and safety measures across China. The proactive stance of both government and industry reflects a concerted effort towards establishing a comprehensive AI safety framework, paving the way for responsible technological advancement in the sector.

Global Cooperation in AI Governance

In an era defined by rapid technological advancements, the governance of artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a critical issue that necessitates international collaboration. As AI technologies increasingly impact various aspects of society, the need for cooperative governance frameworks becomes evident. Industry leaders like Yi Zeng emphasize that collaboration among key nations is essential, stating, “It would be best if the UK, US, China, Singapore, and other institutes come together.” This sentiment underscores the imperative of a multilateral approach to effectively address the governance challenges posed by AI.

Moreover, Paul Triolo highlights that a coalition of major AI safety players, co-led by countries such as China, Singapore, the UK, and the EU, is forming to construct essential guardrails around the development of frontier AI models. This collaborative model is crucial for sharing insights, developing common safety standards, and ensuring responsible AI deployment across borders.

The implications of such collaborative models in AI safety frameworks are profound. They enhance the sharing of critical data related to AI risks and encourage transparency in AI development processes. Such cooperation fosters trust between nations, which is particularly vital for collective security in a landscape where the actions of one country can have far-reaching consequences.

Ethical considerations surrounding AI technologies, combined with the varying regulatory approaches across countries, necessitate consensus-based guidelines. Such guidelines should respect diverse cultural values while promoting innovation and safety in AI application.

As global AI initiatives progress, it is imperative to invest in international dialogues and partnerships that create regulatory environments fostering innovation while ensuring safety and equity. This ongoing collaboration is fundamental to shaping balanced approaches towards AI governance, ensuring that no nation is left behind in navigating the complex challenges presented by artificial intelligence.

Insights From Industry Leaders on AI Governance and Safety

In the realm of artificial intelligence governance, several key figures have voiced their insights regarding safety and the implications of AI development. Notable quotes from AI experts like Geoffrey Hinton and Bo Peng provide a deeper understanding of the urgency surrounding AI safety, especially in the context of China’s ambitions in the global AI landscape.

1. Geoffrey Hinton, often referred to as the “godfather of AI,” explicitly warned about the existential risks posed by advanced AI technologies. He stated:

   “My greatest fear is that, in the long run, it’ll turn out that these kind of digital beings we’re creating are just a better form of intelligence than people. […] If you want to know how it’s like not to be the apex intelligence, ask a chicken.”

   source

   This encapsulates the potential dangers of allowing AI to advance unchecked.

2. Hinton also highlighted the critical need for international cooperation to mitigate AI risks, mentioning:

   “All countries want to prevent that [AI from taking over people], and if any country discovers a good way of doing that, they would be very happy to share it with other countries because they don’t want AI taking over.”

   source

   This reflects the collaborative ethos required in AI governance discussions.

3. Bo Peng, a Chinese AI expert, emphasized the necessity of collective governance, remarking:

   “Because different AIs naturally embody different values and will keep each other in check.”

   His viewpoint illustrates the importance of diverse, value-driven AI systems to safeguard against monopolistic tendencies in AI development.

4. Yi Zeng, another notable AI leader, expressed the urgency for cooperative efforts when he stated:

   “It would be best if the UK, US, China, Singapore, and other institutes come together.”

   This quote underscores the necessity of inclusive dialogue to create a balanced and fair global AI governance framework.

5. Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, emphasized the need for immediate action and a clear vision for AI’s role in society:

   “We want to put our values at the core of AI legislation in a way that fosters technology development.”

   source

6. Oliver Röpke, President of the EESC, advocated for ethical AI governance, stating:

   “AI should be a tool for empowerment, not control,” highlighting the need for strong legal safeguards and meaningful social dialogue.

   source

7. Margrethe Vestager, EU Chief Tech Regulator, warned that AI entails unique existential risks, articulating, “AI is ushering in a disruptive era comparable to the advent of atomic weapons.”

   source

These statements from leading figures elucidate crucial aspects of the ongoing discourse surrounding AI safety and governance. Their insights reflect an understanding that a comprehensive, cooperative approach is vital for addressing the complexities of AI in today’s technology-driven world.

As China positions itself as a leader in AI technology, these calls for collaboration become increasingly pertinent, emphasizing the need for international partnerships to ensure responsible governance of AI technologies moving forward.

Conclusion

In conclusion, China’s evolving stance on artificial intelligence (AI) governance is not only pivotal for its national objectives but also carries significant implications for global AI safety efforts. The World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) 2025 highlighted China’s ambition to spearhead a cohesive international AI agenda, reflecting its willingness to collaborate with other nations despite the current geopolitical tensions. Premier Li Qiang’s advocacy for a global AI governance framework signals an assertive approach to preventing monopolistic practices while promoting equitable access to AI technologies.

The mixed responses from industry players regarding AI safety reveal the complexities inherent in balancing innovation with precautionary measures. China’s AI safety models, marked by strong state oversight and limited transparency, contrast sharply with the practices seen in the West, where a more decentralized approach to safety governance is prevalent. These differences underscore the urgent need for cooperative frameworks that not only embrace diverse cultural values but also ensure the responsible development of AI technologies.

The emergence of multilateral coalitions, co-led by China and other significant global players, is essential for establishing guardrails around frontier AI development. This collective effort can drive forward critical dialogues necessary for shaping sustainable and safe AI practices worldwide.

Moreover, the impact of AI in personal aspects of life highlights its empathetic role amidst technological advancements. For instance, AI-driven griefbots have been developed in China to assist people in mourning their deceased loved ones, providing them with a means to find comfort. A case from Taizhou illustrates this with a woman who frequently interacts with a lifelike avatar of her late husband, allowing her to alleviate her grief despite concerns from experts about over-reliance on such technologies. Similarly, AI applications like DeepSeek serve young individuals seeking therapy, showcasing the emotional engagement of users in their daily lives.

Furthermore, the introduction of AI-powered chatbots has proven effective in addressing mental health challenges in China. Users reported significant improvements in mental distress symptoms after interactions with these AI companions. The advent of AI avatars for deceased loved ones and smart AI pets among the youth underlines a growing trend of utilizing technology to satisfy emotional needs and companionship.

As AI continues to influence various societal facets, a unified and proactive governance approach is paramount to mitigate risks and harness AI’s potential responsibly. Ultimately, China’s active engagement in global AI discussions and its distinct governance strategies suggest that a collaborative future in AI safety is possible. It is vital for nations to work together, share knowledge, and develop policies that prioritize both innovation and the ethical implications of AI technologies.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about China’s AI Policies and Global Implications

1. What are the main objectives of China’s AI policies?

China’s AI policies primarily aim to establish the country as a global leader in artificial intelligence technology while ensuring a framework of governance that promotes both innovation and safety. Premier Li Qiang advocates for international collaboration to prevent monopolistic practices and ensure equitable access to AI advancements.

2. How do China’s AI regulations compare to those in the West?

China’s approach to AI regulations tends to be more centralized, with strong state oversight, contrasted with the decentralized and less regulated environment in the US. Western countries are more focused on balancing competition with ethical considerations, whereas China’s governance heavily emphasizes safety and responsibility in AI development.

3. What are the implications of global cooperation in AI governance?

Global cooperation in AI governance is essential for sharing insights, developing common safety standards, and ensuring responsible AI deployment across borders. Such collaborations can foster trust between nations and facilitate a unified approach to managing potential risks associated with advanced AI technologies.

4. What role does the World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) play in shaping AI governance?

The WAIC provides a vital platform for discussions among key stakeholders, including industry leaders and governments, to address critical challenges and shape a collaborative global AI agenda. It highlights China’s ambitions in AI and serves as a focal point for international dialogue concerning AI safety protocols and governance models.

5. How does China handle AI safety and ethical considerations?

China has implemented various initiatives aimed at ensuring safety in AI developments, such as the AI Safety Governance Framework. This emphasizes a people-centered approach to AI and sets principles for responsible AI system development while still leaving significant gaps in detailed reporting compared to Western practices.

6. What challenges does China face in implementing its AI policies?

While China is making strides in AI governance, it faces challenges regarding industry compliance with safety measures and transparency. The tension between the need for rigorous safety standards and the desire to maintain competitive advantages presents significant hurdles for effective AI policy implementation.