China is accelerating its artificial intelligence (AI) development, with Shanghai unveiling an “AI Supermarket” that offers developers one-stop access to AI resources like DeepSeek models, government-subsidized computing power, and high-quality datasets. The initiative, launched in February, marks a significant advancement by the Shanghai Foundation Model Innovation Center, an incubator hosting over 100 enterprises.
Spanning over 60,000 square meters, the incubator provides resources for ecosystem growth, including 18 support policies such as computing subsidies, fundraising networks, and open data platforms. During his visit to the center on Tuesday, Chinese President Xi Jinping called on Shanghai to lead in AI development and governance, urging the city to build a highland of scientific and technological innovation with global influence.
“AI technology is evolving rapidly and entering a phase of explosive growth,” President Xi said, encouraging the city to summarize its successful experiences in AI incubation and to continue pioneering in the industry.
The center, officially unveiled in 2023, is one of China’s first dedicated incubators for large-scale AI models. It aims to strengthen Shanghai’s pursuit of establishing a world-class, globally competitive AI industry cluster. It supports companies with computing power, open data, evaluation services, financial services, and comprehensive support, fostering innovation across various industries, including consumer, entertainment, and finance.
In response to the need for more talent, Shanghai’s Xuhui District has launched a global recruitment plan for AI professionals and established the West Bund International Talent Hub. The hub also houses the Shanghai Emerging Industry Young Entrepreneurs Association, supporting young innovators to drive forward Chinese modernization.
“AI is a nascent industry, and it’s also an industry that belongs to young people,” President Xi said while meeting with young innovators, encouraging them to showcase their talents and skills.
On the same day, President Xi visited the New Development Bank (NDB) and met with its president, Dilma Rousseff. He noted that broader BRICS cooperation has entered a stage of high-quality development and that the bank is set to embark on its second golden decade.
As a multilateral development bank founded by the BRICS nations, the NDB has approved over 100 projects in member countries, totaling approximately $35 billion by the end of 2023. From urban railway projects in India to wind power projects in Brazil, the bank has contributed significantly to the economic development of member countries and the improvement of the global economic governance system.
Calling the bank “a pioneering initiative for the unity and self-improvement of the Global South,” President Xi urged the NDB to consider the development needs of the Global South and provide more high-quality, sustainable infrastructure financing.
Dilma Rousseff emphasized that unilateralism and protectionism undermine the stability of industrial and supply chains, adding that the NDB will continue to contribute to the development of developing countries and emerging markets.
