China’s AI Industry Enters a Period of Explosive Growth
“Last year, Chinese enterprises launched more than 300 humanoid robots, accounting for over half of the global total.” On March 5, at the “Ministerial Passage” of the Fourth Session of the 14th National People’s Congress, Li Lecheng, Minister of Industry and Information Technology, used this set of data to vividly demonstrate the explosive growth of China’s artificial intelligence (AI) industry.Li Lecheng pointed out that AI is evolving from a “key variable” into a “robust growth driver” for high-quality economic development.
According to the data he disclosed, in 2025, the scale of China’s core AI industry reached 1.2 trillion yuan, with more than 6,200 related enterprises. He summarized the current industrial landscape with “three highlights”:
Three Highlights of China’s AI Industry Development
First, Chinese large models are going global. In 2025, the download volume of open-source large models launched by Chinese enterprises ranked first worldwide, significantly lowering the threshold and cost of AI application. Domestic open-source large models are leading the global open-source ecosystem.Second, AI is deeply integrated into manufacturing. By the end of 2025, more than 30% of industrial enterprises above designated size had achieved AI coverage.Third, smart terminals are accelerating in popularity. AI glasses, AI smartphones, and AI computers have become new consumer favorites, with a steady stream of bestsellers. In particular, new humanoid robot models “account for more than half of the global total”.
Regarding the continuous popularity of robots, from performing yangko dances to skits on the Spring Festival Gala stage, Li Lecheng specifically noted that what the stage presents is not just talent, but “Chinese Kung Fu” demonstrated by China’s AI as it moves from technological breakthroughs to scenario implementation. It is a brilliant showcase of the innovative development of China’s AI industry and a vivid display of new quality productive forces entering the public eye.
Future Priorities: Deep Integration of AI and Manufacturing
Looking ahead, Li Lecheng stated that the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology will leverage its advantages of a complete industrial category and a concentration of innovative talents to promote the iteration of products such as AI computers and smart homes. At the same time, it will accelerate technological breakthroughs in brain-computer interfaces, autonomous driving, and humanoid robots, “so that more smart products can meet the needs of all industries”.
At the application level, Li Lecheng clearly emphasized that “AI + manufacturing is a must-answer question, not an optional one.” In 2026, the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology will vigorously promote the deep integration of AI and manufacturing, explore high-value scenarios, and cultivate specialized intelligent agents. This will not only unlock the potential of traditional industries but also stimulate the vitality of emerging industries.
On the same day, Minister of Science and Technology Yin Hejun also stressed in his response that the 15th Five-Year Plan period is a critical stage for accelerating the achievement of self-reliance and self-improvement in high-level science and technology. China will strengthen systematic layout in cutting-edge fields such as AI and quantum technology, and lead the development of new quality productive forces through scientific and technological innovation.
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