CHINA PERSPECTIVE

Chinese state media cover the Zhongguancun Forum 2026 as a demonstration of the country's technological power and the appeal of its innovation model. Xinhua headlines on the 'deep integration of technological and industrial innovation,' using the Party's official vocabulary. The People's Daily highlights six emerging pillar industries—integrated circuits, low-altitude economy, intelligent robots—already approaching 6 trillion yuan in value and expected to exceed 10 trillion by 2030.

The Global Times strikes a triumphalist tone, noting that over 1,000 guests from 100 countries attend the forum, proof that the international community recognizes Chinese technological leadership despite American decoupling attempts. CGTN highlights concrete AI applications showcased at the forum: AI interpreters in eight languages, robot café, robot orchestra. Beijing Vice Mayor Jin Wei announces that AI will be at the heart of all Chinese industries.

The South China Morning Post offers a more nuanced angle from Hong Kong, noting that behind the spectacular announcements, China faces real challenges: limited access to advanced chips under US sanctions, brain drain to Singapore and Australia, and Chinese tech company productivity still below American rivals. The AI Plus strategy is presented as a direct response to US export restrictions—turning constraint into an opportunity for endogenous innovation.