Collaboration or Competition?
The world is big enough for multiple countries to co-develop artificial intelligence (AI), according to experts at the Boao Forum for Asia Annual Conference 2025. This sentiment comes in response to recent US sanctions on Chinese high-tech sectors, which aim to hinder China's AI progress.
Zeng Yi, a member of the UN's high-level advisory body on AI, believes that the future of AI is not determined by a few countries, but by nearly 200 countries and regions. He emphasizes that the world can accommodate both the US and China in co-developing AI.
However, the US has recently added dozens of Chinese entities, including the Beijing Academy of Artificial Intelligence (BAAI) and Inspur Group, to its export restrictions list. This move has been criticized by experts as hindering scientific innovation and global cooperation.
Zheng Yongnian, dean of the School of Public Policy at the Chinese University of Hong Kong (Shenzhen), argues that US sanctions have paradoxically spurred China to intensify investments in AI and foster indigenous innovation. He believes that within 10 to 15 years, the US might find itself relying on China's original innovations in certain sectors.
Carl Fey, professor of strategy at BI Norwegian Business School, agrees that US tech restrictions may cause short-term pain for China, but will ultimately compel it to fortify its technological base and sharpen its global competitiveness. He warns that such measures not only slow global tech progress, but also backfire by accelerating domestic innovation.
The DeepSeek AI model, a low-cost, open-source project, is cited as an example of how competition can drive innovation. Its accessible architecture enables rapid deployment and widespread use, potentially reshaping the AI future globally.
Jiang Xiaojuan, a professor at the University of Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, believes that DeepSeek is breaking monopolies and ushering in a new era of vigorous competition, converting technical know-how into industrial might. She trusts that market forces will naturally resolve challenges in this competitive landscape.
collaboration and competition will both play a role in shaping its development. Whether countries can find a way to cooperate and share the benefits of AI, or whether they will continue to compete for dominance, remains to be seen.
5 Comments
Matzomaster
We can't let fear of the unknown hold us back. We need to embrace the potential of AI and use it to create a better future.
Karamba
This is exactly why we need stronger government regulation of AI. Unfettered competition will lead to dangerous outcomes.
Rotfront
This article ignores the potential for AI to exacerbate existing inequalities. We need to ensure that AI benefits everyone, not just the wealthy and powerful.
Karamba
AI is already transforming industries. Competition will lead to even more breakthroughs and create new opportunities for businesses.
Matzomaster
In today's globalized world, countries need to be competitive to thrive. Competition in AI will help ensure that all countries have access to the best technologies.