Summary of Key Points
The 2026 World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) opened in Shanghai with the theme “Intelligent Partners, Creating a Shared Future.” It serves not only as a platform for global AI technology and industry exchange but also pushes global AI governance to new heights. The news highlights that the global AI market is experiencing explosive growth, expected to exceed $900 billion by 2030 at an annual growth rate of 35.9%. China’s AI industry has moved beyond the laboratory stage and penetrated various sectors, with a core scale of over 1.2 trillion yuan in 2025 and a target of 10 trillion yuan by 2030. Shanghai has become a global benchmark for AI development due to hosting the conference for eight consecutive years. There is a consensus on global AI governance, and China has actively proposed initiatives and cooperation plans to foster an inclusive ecosystem.
Detailed Analysis
1. Global AI Market: Growing Rapidly with Unprecedented Potential
AI is currently a highly sought-after asset in the global economy. Data shows that the global AI market was nearly $280 billion in 2024, surged to $757.5 billion in 2025, and is set to exceed $900 billion in 2026, with an annual growth rate of 35.9%—more than doubling every two years. This means that products related to AI could increase in value significantly over time. AI is not only widely used in areas like smartphones and robotics but also integrates into industries such as healthcare, education, and manufacturing, potentially becoming a “super engine” for economic growth.
2. China’s AI Progress: From Laboratory Technology to Real-World Productivity
China’s rapid progress in AI has attracted international attention. During the 14th Five-Year Plan period, AI moved beyond the laboratory stage and became integrated into the real economy, with applications such as using AI for quality control in factories and crop cultivation in agriculture. By 2025, China’s core AI industry will exceed 1.2 trillion yuan, with more than 6,200 companies involved—equivalent to one in every four AI-related businesses being Chinese. The 15th Five-Year Plan aims for even faster growth, with a target of reaching 10 trillion yuan by 2030, transforming AI from a minor factor affecting the economy into a major driver of growth. This indicates that AI has evolved from a conceptual technology to a profitable and job-creating industry in China.
3. Shanghai: The Global Hub for AI
Shanghai has hosted the WAIC for eight consecutive years, nurturing the development of AI since its inception in 2018. It is now widely recognized as a leader in AI research and innovation, similar to how Silicon Valley is central to the internet industry. This is due to Shanghai’s supportive policies, a concentration of companies (including many AI giants), and its strong technological capabilities, supported by universities and research institutions. The conferences have also attracted global talent and resources, positioning Shanghai as a leader in the AI field.
4. Global AI Governance: Collaborative Approaches are Needed
The rapid development of AI brings challenges, such as data security and potential misuses of technology, necessitating international cooperation to establish rules. This year’s conference included a high-level session on global governance, raising the issue to new prominence. Previous United Nations discussions have opposed the concept of an “AI iron curtain” (restricting technological exchanges) and called for an inclusive ecosystem. China has already taken action, proposing the “Global Artificial Intelligence Governance Initiative” in 2023 and the “Artificial Intelligence+” International Cooperation Initiative in 2025, as well as advocating for the establishment of a World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization to promote safer and more equitable AI development.
5. Three Goals of the Conference
The conference aims to achieve three objectives: first, to foster unity among nations by promoting a people-centered approach and ensuring that AI is used for good; second, to seek cooperative opportunities to benefit more people through AI technologies; and third, to implement governance plans from previous years to establish universally accepted rules for AI. In short, the conference seeks to make AI a positive force for humanity rather than a source of problems.
Conclusion
The 2026 WAIC is not only a showcase for AI technology and industry but also a forum for global governance. China is actively contributing to the healthy development of AI, working towards a future where this intelligent partner truly helps us create a better world together.