SCHOLARLY ARTICLE

Antônio Carlos Diegues | Brazilian Journal of Political Economy

This article examines the strategic incorporation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into China’s development policies, reflecting its transition from a capital-intensive to a knowledge-intensive economic model. The study analyzes China's science, technology, and innovation strategies, with a focus on fostering endogenous innovation and integrating AI into industrial and societal applications. By exploring key metrics such as scientific publications, patents, and corporate investments, the article highlights China's accelerated progress in AI development and its implications for global competitiveness, particularly in relation to the United States.

China's National New Generation Artificial Intelligence Development Plan (AIDP) is discussed as a cornerstone of its strategy, driving advances in research, civil-military integration, and the creation of an innovation ecosystem. The paper underscores AI's critical role in addressing societal challenges, including healthcare, education, and urban mobility, while also enhancing productivity and positioning China as a global leader in Industry 4.0.

The findings reveal a rapid increase in China's contributions to high-impact AI research and patents, supported by state-led initiatives and private sector involvement. Despite remaining gaps in quality and foundational technologies compared to the U.S., China’s AI trajectory underscores its ambitions for technological sovereignty and leadership in the international arena.

Full-text: https://www.scielo.br/j/rep/a/Fv4GBX3BVCy4zpDZRCPhBCw/?lang=en