China unveils open source platform

China’s science and technology minister has shared that the government has built an open source platform to boost the development of artificial intelligence (AI) in the country.

According to media reports, switching to open source is expected to make China a world leader in the field of AI by 2030. Offering AI on an open source platform will help with its scientific development.

Addressing the media at the National People’s Assembly, Wan

Gang, the minister of science and technology said, “Open source platforms are needed because AI can play a bigger role in development and make it easier for entrepreneurs to have access to resources.”

AI technology has been in development in China since 1980. The minister shared that now the country wants to lead the sector and hence this national plan – started by President Xi Jinping. The plan involves multiple ministries, in order to be able to apply the technology in all fields. He also highlighted the achievements made in AI over the last few years, such as the development of intelligent vehicles, facial recognition at airports and train stations, or robots that improve the quality of people’s lives.

Wan also shared that promotion of scientific R&D has been a key Chinese policy, with increased state investment and incentives. The minister said research gains in China have had a global impact. The plan, launched by China last year, aims to make the country an AI leader in industry, urban planning, agriculture and defence. The plan aims to boost production of AI-related technology to touch the figure of US$ 22 billion by 2020, US$ 60 billion in 2025, and US$ 147 billion by 2030.