Introduction

In April 2025, General Secretary Xi Jinping emphasized during his visit to Shanghai that artificial intelligence (AI) is a young field and a career for young people. He noted the rapid iteration of AI technology and its explosive growth, urging Shanghai to summarize successful experiences in nurturing the AI industry ecosystem and to enhance exploration efforts to lead in AI development and governance.

Nurturing a Thriving AI Ecosystem

Shanghai is committed to cultivating a rainforest-like industrial ecosystem that fosters innovation and growth among young talents. The city aims to deepen the integration of AI with various sectors, enhancing economic and social governance capabilities while ensuring development and security progress together, contributing a “Shanghai solution” to global AI governance.

Growth of AI Enterprises

The number of enterprises in the “Mosu Space” has increased from over 100 in 2024 to more than 200 in 2025, with over 20 potential unicorns valued at over 1 billion yuan. More than 60% of the city’s large model registration enterprises are concentrated in this area.

Strengthening Support for AI Development

To ensure that “good models do not lack computing power, good applications do not lack data, and good products do not lack chips,” Shanghai is systematically strengthening support for high-performance computing chips, quality data, and efficient computing clusters to lay a solid foundation for model iteration and embodied intelligence technology maturation.

Open AI Collaboration

In 2025, Shanghai launched the “AGI4S Mount Everest Plan” through the Shanghai Artificial Intelligence Laboratory, fully opening up channels for computing power, data, models, platforms, scenarios, projects, and talent cooperation, establishing a national hub for AI4S.

Policy and Talent Development

Shanghai has implemented several measures to enhance AI applications, including the establishment of an AI industry investment fund and the introduction of the first provincial-level local regulations to promote AI industry development. The city aims to create a fertile ground for the young generation to showcase their talents and deepen the integration of AI with industry development, social welfare, and urban governance.

AI Industry Achievements

By 2025, Shanghai had nearly 10% of the national intelligent computing supply capacity and approximately one-third of the country’s AI talent. The city has launched over 150 registered large models and leads globally in humanoid robot shipments, with several intelligent chips achieving breakthroughs. The AI industry in Shanghai has seen a production scale exceeding 637 billion yuan, marking a 39.5% year-on-year growth.

AI in Action

The eighth World Artificial Intelligence Conference was held in Shanghai in July 2025, showcasing the vibrant AI industry. AI applications are being integrated into various sectors, including manufacturing, healthcare, and urban governance, enhancing productivity and efficiency.

Innovative Talent Cultivation

Shanghai is optimizing talent cultivation and technological innovation paradigms to empower young people in exploring new production relationships. The Shanghai Chuangzhi Academy is pioneering an integrated education model that combines research, innovation, and practical application, allowing students to engage in real-world projects.

AI Empowering Research

The Shanghai Artificial Intelligence Laboratory is also facilitating breakthroughs in research paradigms, such as the development of a unified multimodal model that topped the Hugging Face trends list. The lab’s initiatives aim to enhance collaboration and innovation across various fields, including energy storage and scientific research.

AI Governance and Compliance

Shanghai is committed to balancing innovation with regulation, continuously strengthening legal protections and governance collaboration. The city has established guidelines for electronic evidence collection in AI-related criminal cases, promoting a new model of judicial governance that integrates technology and law.

Global AI Governance Contributions

Shanghai is actively participating in international AI governance, establishing cooperation mechanisms with 38 countries and promoting dialogue and collaboration in AI governance. The city aims to bridge the gap between local innovations and global standards, contributing to a more connected and responsible AI ecosystem.

Conclusion

Shanghai’s comprehensive strategy for AI development and governance positions it as a leader in the global AI landscape. By fostering innovation, nurturing talent, and actively engaging in international collaboration, Shanghai is paving the way for a sustainable and responsible AI future.