Beijing speeds up AI race to 2030

This week, at the National People's Congress, China will present an outline of its five‑year plan for 2026–2030, intended to set the direction for technological competition with the West.

Beijing aims to turn advances in artificial intelligence, humanoid robotics and space technology into industrial strength and a boost for capital markets. The government is expected to emphasise support for ‘AI manufacturing’, with large state‑owned enterprises playing a key role in putting innovations into practice.

The plan comes shortly before a meeting between Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump, where technology controls and supply chains will also be on the agenda.

Analysts warn that pressure on AI could favour large companies and accelerate market consolidation. Despite these ambitions, however, the new industries are unlikely to achieve the target GDP growth of 5 per cent on their own, meaning that China will continue to depend on exports.

(reuters, pir)