Wider solutions

In March 2025, Guangxi unveiled its AI + Manufacturing Action Plan (2025-2027), which calls for Nanning to establish the China-ASEAN Artificial Intelligence Collaborative Innovation Center, or CAAIC.

The plan envisions a regional innovation and application hub with Nanning at its core, backed by coordinated support from other cities, to accelerate the supply of AI software and smart terminal products.

Liu said China's AI industry is advancing at a rapid pace, and breaking the long-standing monopolies of a few countries in core AI technologies.

"By offering both a 'Chinese solution' and 'Chinese wisdom', China is contributing to global AI development while promoting the inclusive and diverse application of this transformative technology," he said. "Through the joint establishment of the CAAIC, our goal is to transform the Guangxi experience into an ASEAN solution."

The CAAIC's chief scientific officer, Guo Sha, said Guangxi has special advantages in advancing AI development and deepening coordination with ASEAN countries.

"Guangxi's drive to accelerate AI development comes against the backdrop of China's broader push for self-reliance, application-driven innovation, and the safe, orderly growth of the AI sector in a way that is both equitable and beneficial," he said.

Guangxi, with its geographical advantages, is well-positioned to seize opportunities by harnessing AI to drive growth across a wide range of industries, he added.

"Guangxi's geographical proximity and similar climatic conditions with ASEAN countries make it an ideal partner," Guo said.

"AI-powered agricultural technologies developed in Guangxi can be readily applied by farmers across the region, helping them control pests and diseases, raise crop yields, and ultimately improve their livelihoods."

The region is also actively promoting joint AI talent development with ASEAN countries. "The CAAIC has launched collaborative projects with universities in Laos and Thailand, hosting students from these countries to cultivate their own AI expertise," Guo said.

In addition, the center is partnering with ASEAN countries to promote sound and fair AI governance, he said.

"Data lies at the heart of AI, and in China-ASEAN collaboration, cross-border data flows remain a crucial issue," Guo said.

"Such connectivity brings with it challenges related to data security, privacy protection, and the ethical use of large AI models — all core concerns for the future of AI."

To address these issues, the center is engaging with international research projects on AI ethics and participating in global cooperation efforts. The aim, officials said, is to ensure that when serving ASEAN and other Global South nations, collaboration is carried out through credible institutions that adhere to internationally recognized standards.

"These initiatives are set to position the CAAIC as a key platform for regional cooperation and shared development, creating fresh opportunities and momentum for collaboration in AI across nations," said Chang Liang, deputy director of Guangxi Big Data Development Bureau.

"With 'AI for all', we will build the technology that benefits all, and make sure the AI transformation empowers all countries," he said.

Contact the writers at liujianqiao@chinadaily.com.cn