AI takes center stage during the “two sessions.”
A man touches a robotic hand during the Global Developers Conference in Shanghai on February 21, 2025.
Vigorous discussions surrounding DeepSeek’s artificial intelligence (AI) models, which began early this year, continued at the “two sessions” – the annual meetings of the National People’s Congress (NPC) and the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) – held from March 5 to 11. It showed how China is rapidly growing into a vast market for AI technology, with cutting-edge innovations increasingly integrated across various sectors of the economy.
Lawmakers, political advisors, and observers alike lauded the progress in the AI sector, and discussed AI’s many facets – from its boundless applications across diverse fields and its potential for growth to the safety concerns and pivotal role in international cooperation. The discussions demonstrate China’s commitment to this emerging field, reflecting broader efforts to pursue high-quality development.
In support of China’s AI Plus initiative, this year’s government work report delivered by Premier Li Qiang aims to expand the use of large-scale AI models while aggressively developing next-generation intelligent terminals and smart manufacturing equipment. These include connected new-energy vehicles, AI-enabled phones and computers, and intelligent robots.
The National Museum of China in Beijing demonstrates an AI face swap technology on February 20, 2025.
Embracing Breakthroughs
DeepSeek has been at the center of these discussions. At a press conference held on March 4, NPC spokesperson Lou Qinjian stated that the significant progress made by DeepSeek represents the rise of Chinese companies in the AI field, praising the teams behind the model for advancing China’s science and technology.
He noted that DeepSeek’s open-source approach promotes the universal application of AI worldwide and contributes Chinese wisdom to global innovation, showcasing the nation’s commitment to inclusiveness in scientific and technological development.
The rise of DeepSeek marks a major milestone in China’s efforts to upgrade its industries with smart technologies. In recent years, the country has made substantial progress in AI applications across various sectors – such as manufacturing, logistics, new energy vehicles, and home appliances – establishing itself as a leading player in AI technology.
According to a recent report by the China Center for Information Industry Development, China’s advantages in the AI sector stem from its focus on meeting domestic market demand, while the U.S. prioritizes technological innovation and Europe emphasizes the formulation of standards. “Though not far ahead globally, China is more active in applying AI in numerous scenarios – not only in industry, but also in culture and government affairs,” said Cui Yan, an NPC deputy and founder of tech firm 4DAGE.
Cui noted that the successful integration of technological innovations with industrial development is upgrading and transforming traditional industries, ushering in unprecedented opportunities. The rapid, low-cost deployment of large-model technology based on DeepSeek offers valuable opportunities for industrial innovation, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises.
Cui’s team is committed to AI-based three-dimensional digitalization, and has provided technical support to the restoration and preservation of nearly 10,000 cultural relics. They have also applied AI technology in fields such as digital display and public safety. “All sectors can benefit from integrating AI,” he observed.
AI glasses on display at the 23rd China (Shanghai) International Optics Fair on February 20, 2025.
Citing DeepSeek as a successful case, Liu Tsee Ming, member of the National Committee of the CPPCC and chairman of Elite Industrial Holdings Ltd., attributed the rapid development of China’s hi-tech sectors, including AI, to the inherent advantages of private enterprises in research and development. He noted that private companies benefit from quick decision-making and flexible management, allowing them to quickly respond to emerging opportunities and allocate resources efficiently to R&D. Additionally, their ability to attract top talent with competitive salaries and good work environments further bolsters their comparative advantages in technology research and development.
The private sector plays a pivotal role in driving China’s innovation efforts, accounting for more than 92 percent of its hi-tech enterprises and over 70 percent of its technological innovation achievements. At a symposium on private enterprises held in Beijing on February 17, which was attended by leaders of hi-tech firms such as DeepSeek founder Liang Wenfeng, Chinese President Xi Jinping stressed the role of private companies in advancing technological innovation. He reiterated his unwavering commitment to the private sector, saying that the fundamental policies for the development of the private economy have been incorporated into the national institutional system and that “this cannot and will not change.”
Staff members test fighter robots at an innovation park for young entrepreneurs in Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, on January 9, 2025.
Filling Technological Gaps
China’s AI development was also a hot topic among international observers during and after the “two sessions.” A key area of discussion was how China’s AI sector can benefit the rest of the world, particularly other Global South countries.
Daan du Toit, deputy director general of international cooperation and resources at South Africa’s Department of Science and Innovation – and a DeepSeek app user – stated that DeepSeek’s AI models are both remarkable and crucial for the Global South because they offer affordable access to advanced technology for countries with limited resources. He emphasized the significance of the models being open-source.
“That is the way China believes innovation should progress – to benefit all. That creates great opportunities for scientists and innovators from the Global South to work with China,” he said.
Lawrence Nderu, a research fellow in the Department of Computing at Kenya’s Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, echoed this sentiment in an interview with China Daily.
“Through the development of DeepSeek, China has proven that it's possible to develop AI solutions with fewer computing capabilities as long as the developer is efficient at the algorithm level,” he said, adding that this innovation has inspired the Global South, encouraging the development of meaningful AI solutions even with limited computing resources.
Yvonnie Akonda Sundu, a Malawian media and communications expert, highlighted the potential impact of China-Africa collaboration in AI. “I think China-Africa collaboration in AI will drive innovation, economic growth, and digital transformation across the continent. Key impact areas include AI governance, where China’s expertise in AI and AI governance will promote the development of robust AI regulations, ensuring the responsible use of AI technologies across the continent.”
Addressing the challenges associated with AI is a key part of China’s agenda. Legislation has been introduced to protect data privacy and security, and the government has launched the Global Artificial Intelligence Governance initiative to foster an open, inclusive, and fair approach to the development, security, and governance of emerging AI technologies and services.
“China is willing to work with all countries in the world to continue to promote the healthy development of AI, promote world economic growth, and enhance the well-being of people in all countries,” Lou said at the press conference on March 4. 
