China issues guideline on artificial intelligence development

2017-07-20
english.gov.cn

The State Council has issued a guideline on developing artificial intelligence (AI), setting a goal of becoming a global innovation center in this field by 2030.

The total output value of artificial intelligence industries should surpass 1 trillion yuan ($147.80 billion). A mature theory and technology system should be formed.

Developing AI is a “complicated and systematic project” according to the guideline. An open and coordinated AI innovation system should be constructed to develop not only the technology, but also products and market.

AI in China should be used to promote the country’s technology, economy, social welfare, maintain national security, and contribute to the world.

Breakthroughs should be made in basic theories of AI, such as big data intelligence, multimedia aware computing, human-machine hybrid intelligence, swarm intelligence and automated decision-making. Advanced theories which can potentially transform AI should also be looked at, including advanced machine learning, brain-like computing and quantum intelligent computing.

Trans-boundary research should be promoted to connect AI with other subjects, such as cognitive science, psychology, mathematics and economics.

A common technology system should be developed based on algorithms, data and hardware. Technologies in the system include a computational knowledge engine, swarm computing, virtual reality modeling and natural language processing.

Innovation platforms should be constructed, such as an open-source computing platform, which can promote coordination among different hardware, software and clouds.

More AI professionals and scientists should be trained.

The AI economy should be promoted. New industries using AI technology should be developed, such as smart robot, smart vehicle, virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR) and smart terminal. Traditional industries should be integrated with AI to develop smart manufacturing, agriculture, finance, logistics and business.

Along with AI, the sharing economy is expected to grow and customized products will become the new consumption trend. Collaboration between humans and machines will become a mainstream production and service mode.

Enterprises are urged to apply AI in their design, production, management, logistics and marketing. Smart factories should be promoted.

AI should be applied in the public service and social management to build a safer, more comfortable and convenient society. Smart education, healthcare and elder care should be promoted. AI should also be applied in public administration, court, urban management, transportation, environmental protection and public security.

AI should be applied in national defense, including military command, equipment and drills.

In addition, a smart infrastructure system should be built, especially in mobile communication, internet of things, and energy.

According to the guideline, the government will invest in qualified AI projects. Private capital investment is also encouraged. A development fund for AI should be set up.

Domestic AI companies and researchers are encouraged to cooperate with leading foreign AI teams and consider merging or investing in foreign companies, setting up joint research centers and AI international organizations.

Laws and regulations about AI should be formulated, as well as ethic principles.

Technology standards, an intellectual property rights system, and a supervision mechanism should also be enacted.