Beijing is making an ambitious bid to turn China’s vast ocean of data into fuel for artificial intelligence and economic growth with the launch of a centralised national data group, though experts warn its success will depend on tearing down entrenched data-sharing barriers.
The venture – established on October 20 as a centrally managed state-owned enterprise headquartered in Xiongan New Area, Hebei province – signals Beijing’s intent to translate its digital trove into competitive advantage.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Vice-Premier Ding Xuexiang described the move as a “major strategic decision” aimed at strengthening China’s competitiveness in AI and the digital economy, the South China Morning Post reported last week.
