Beijing (TDI): The number of registered users of large generative AI models in China has exceeded 600 million, according to recent data released by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT).
This milestone reflects the rapid integration of AI into various sectors of the economy, transforming industrial processes and driving innovation.
Zhao Zhiguo, Chief Engineer of MIIT, revealed on Sunday that China’s core AI industry continues to expand, with over 4,500 enterprises currently operating in the sector.
More than 200 generative AI models have been registered and are actively providing services to the public, catering to a user base of more than 600 million.
Experts see this shift as a significant benchmark, comparable to the previous indicators of internet and mobile internet users.
“The number of registered users of large AI models is now a key indicator of digital transformation,” said Li Baiyang, Associate Professor of Intelligence Studies at Nanjing University.
Li said that by October 2024, China’s AI industry had secured a leading position globally in both open-source and closed-source AI models, consistently topping global rankings, according to Global Times.
AI technology is increasingly being integrated into various strategic industries, including manufacturing, finance, and healthcare, with applications ranging from AI-powered robots to end-to-end AI products like smartphones and automobiles.
Also Read: China Unveils Policies to Boost Economy
Observers attribute this rapid growth to several factors, including technological innovation and rising market demand.
“China’s AI industry has evolved from a trendy topic into a critical driver of industrial modernization,” said one analyst, likening AI’s role to a “combustion engine” powering the transformation of the country’s industrial system.
Chinses Companies Make Strides in AI
Leading Chinese tech companies such as MiniMax, ByteDance, and Beijing-based 01.AI are also making strides internationally, deploying AI applications to fuel revenue growth.
Liu Wei, Director of the Human-Machine Interaction and Cognitive Engineering Lab at Beijing University of Posts and Telecommunications, highlighted the importance of this international expansion, noting that China’s extensive training data offers a robust foundation for further AI advancements.
Also Read: China’s Blue economy contributes to peaceful oceans
As a pioneer in AI, China is playing an increasingly influential role in global AI governance.
“China has been contributing Eastern wisdom to the world, demonstrating its vision and responsibility in shaping the future of AI development,” Liu remarked.
