Data, entrepreneurial flair and government backing have helped China take a lead in AI, SCMP report says
- The report examines how AI is being applied across a range of sectors including autonomous vehicles, finance, health care, retail and manufacturing
- The report is the inaugural publication from SCMP Research, the research and analysis division of the SCMP
The South China Morning Post this week launched its China AI Report 2020, which shows how government direction, access to data, robust funding and entrepreneurial zeal have all allowed China to take a lead in the deployment of artificial intelligence.
The report examines how AI is being applied across a range of sectors including autonomous vehicles, finance, health care, retail, smart homes and manufacturing, among others. Aside from technology, it finds that data and talent are of critical importance to wider AI adoption.
Broadly speaking the application of AI in China is designed to address two fundamental business challenges – how to improve efficiency and enable personalisation.
Based on the Post technology team’s in-depth reporting of developments in the AI sector over the past few years, plus fresh case studies on some of China’s leading AI practitioners, including Baidu and SenseTime, the report is designed as a critical business intelligence tool.
“The speed of AI development in China has been extraordinary and its deployment is already at mind-boggling scale. The opportunities and challenges of this evolution will impact the entire world,” said Gary Liu, CEO of the SCMP.
“This report benefits from SCMP's depth of access and knowledge, and will elevate critical understanding for global stakeholders in the AI industry and beyond.”
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The report is the inaugural publication from SCMP Research, the research and analysis division of the SCMP. The unit provides business intelligence and insights into the latest developments in China and Asia, shedding light on cutting edge innovation in some of the region’s most dynamic industries.
“SCMP has been taking the lead in presenting our global audience with the latest tech landscape in China,” said Tammy Tam, SCMP editor-in-chief. “The publication of this updated and authoritative report showcases our commitment and tireless efforts in helping readers around the world to better understand China's AI strategy.”
AI presents opportunities and risks for the world’s largest manufacturer, as the technology could see repetitive jobs shift back to developed countries as manual labour becomes less important, while on the other hand it will likely help Chinese industry climb even further up the value chain.
In health care, AI holds the promise of enabling fully automated diagnosis and treatment in China – including surgery by domestically produced robots. But fully personalised and AI-assisted care could still be many years away.
Other challenges remain.
Many of those interviewed for the report stressed that addressing privacy concerns and building trust would be vital to the continued deployment of AI. Aside from data privacy, many people are also anxious about the perpetuation of bias and discrimination through machine learning algorithms.
Purchase the China AI Report 2020 brought to you by SCMP Research and enjoy a 20% discount (original price US$400). This 60-page all new intelligence report gives you first-hand insights and analysis into the latest industry developments and intelligence about China AI. Get exclusive access to our webinars for continuous learning, and interact with China AI executives in live Q&A. Offer Valid until 31 March 2020.
