China AI

China’s generative AI user base has doubled to 515 million within six months, reaching a 36.5% adoption rate, according to CNNIC. This growth, driven by state support and domestic innovation, signals a potential shift towards a parallel AI ecosystem. Young, educated professionals dominate the user demographic, with a strong preference for domestic AI models like those from DeepSeek and Alibaba Cloud. China leads in AI patent filings globally, fueled by the “AI Plus” initiative, shaping a distinct technological influence.

The 2025 AI for Good Global Summit, co-hosted by ITU and UN agencies in Geneva, convened global AI leaders and over 300 firms. Chinese companies including Yuntian Life, China Mobile, Alibaba DAMO, and Baidu demonstrated rising influence. Discussions covered AI’s role in sustainability, ethics, and practical applications. Yuntian Life’s CEO emphasized making AI accessible via efficient inference chips. The summit fostered debate on AI’s future and accelerated innovation from labs to real-world impact.

OpenAI’s Global Affairs account highlighted China’s AI progress, specifically praising Zhipu AI’s significant advancements and international reach. The Chinese firm, a key player in China’s self-reliant AI ecosystem, has deployed infrastructure globally. OpenAI analysts note Zhipu AI’s success in Western markets with localized versions of its products, presenting it as a growing contender in the AI race.