Shanghai is rapidly developing its artificial intelligence industry by implementing regulations, fostering innovation hubs, and creating a collaborative ecosystem for humanoid robots and AI technologies, leading to significant growth and strong outputs in the sector.
Shanghai is shaping itself into a key player in the artificial intelligence sector, with recent strides focused on innovation. Take Qinglong, for example—this humanoid robot boasts 1.85 meters in height, 43 joints, and an impressive capability to maneuver through obstacles, all crafted at the National and Local Co-Built Humanoid Robotics Innovation Center. After unveiling several humanoid robot prototypes, the city’s ambitions clearly signal potential growth in AI tech that’s hard to ignore.
The municipal government has been busy since 2022, implementing regulations geared toward fast-tracking AI development. Various initiatives are piecing together a supportive structure, including a model innovation support plan and an intelligent computing acceleration plan. Shanghai is not just sitting back; they are also working on plans for a model testing and collaboration center, among others—each designed to bolster AI resources.
Regional strengths are being tapped into as districts in Shanghai collaborate closely. For instance, Pudong New Area is spearheading advancements in AI computing chips, while Xuhui is nurturing an environment ripe for algorithmic innovation. It’s a symbiotic relationship where each district’s uniqueness contributes to the overall landscape of AI growth.
In addition, a strong base for intelligent computing was set up with clusters in Songjiang and Lingang. This means significant support for large model training is now at hand. The layout encompasses four main hubs throughout the city—a strategic move that further solidifies Shanghai’s AI ambitions.
The recently launched Shanghai Foundation Model Innovation Center has also ramped up interest, drawing in an impressive number of businesses. As of September 2023, around 255 large model enterprises have set up shop nearby, and more than 100 investment institutions are now on board. The local buzz is that moving up or down floors equates to shifts in the supply chain.
Companies like Infinigence AI are on the forefront, working to make domestic AI algorithms run smoothly across multiple Chinese chips—essential for bolstering supply chains and keeping China competitive.
“The goal is to create a positive synergy between our hardware and algorithms,” shared Xia Lixue, co-founder and CEO of Infinigence AI, highlighting the focus on collaboration that drives the industry forward.
With a keen eye on the future, Shanghai aims to construct a dynamic ecosystem for AI. They’re enhancing software-hardware compatibility and testing processes while supporting the Shanghai Artificial Intelligence Laboratory. Additionally, plans for a humanoid robot manufacturing center will boost efficiencies across the industrial chain.
In tandem with these efforts, Shanghai is investing in a talent ecosystem and a strategic AI advisory committee to ensure robust intellectual support. This holistic approach is paying off; the AI sector hit 400 billion yuan in output last year, showing a strong year-on-year growth. Q1 of 2025 alone saw a growth surge of 13.2 percent, a telling sign of lasting momentum in this rapidly evolving field.
Shanghai is making substantial progress in establishing itself as a heavyweight in the artificial intelligence industry. With initiatives designed for collaboration and innovation, coupled with robust outputs, the city’s future in AI looks promising. By nurturing a diverse talent pool and creating supportive infrastructures, Shanghai’s gradual yet determined ascent in the AI landscape is noteworthy and certainly worth keeping an eye on.
Original Source: en.people.cn