China's AI rule mandates technology support for communist system

author: FutureCar Staff    

China implemented a new interim regulation on Tuesday that requires providers of artificial intelligence services to support the communist system and prevent the technology from subverting state power. The regulation reflects a renewed focus on security under Chinese President Xi Jinping, who aims to regulate all technologies and information in the country to protect the Communist Party's rule.

China currently has over 100 artificial intelligence companies capable of producing services similar to American ChatGPT and OpenAI chatbot services. The country has ambitious plans to become a global leader in AI in the coming decades.

Artificial intelligence is a cutting-edge technology that utilizes advanced software and high-powered computers to create text, images, audio, and video that can mimic certain human brain functions.

The new Chinese interim regulation, which was published on July 13 and went into effect on Tuesday, was approved by China's Cyberspace Administration and endorsed by seven other agencies, including the Ministry of Public Security. The regulation states that AI service providers must adhere to socialist core values and must not generate content that incites subversion of state power or overthrowing the socialist system.

Chinese AI providers with "public opinion attributes or social mobilization capability" are required to undergo security screening, according to the regulation. Other restrictions include prohibitions on AI that endangers national security, damages the national image, incites succession, undermines national unity and social stability, or promotes false and harmful information banned by the Party.

Matt Sheehan, a China expert at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, noted that China is producing some of the world's most detailed regulations on AI, including control over algorithms. The regulations aim to achieve information control, protect workers' rights, and restrict the use of personal data or AI for illegal purposes.

In the United States, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has announced plans for AI regulation and expressed concerns about China influencing the rules for this cutting-edge technology. AI has significant military and intelligence applications, which are being developed by both the Pentagon and the Chinese military.

The new Chinese regulation was signed by the leaders of major Chinese information and technology ministries, including Minister of Public Security Wang Xiaohong. Sheehan believes that this interim law is part of a larger process to establish more comprehensive regulations later this year or in 2024. The main objective of these regulations is to shape technology in a way that serves the Chinese Communist Party's agenda, particularly for information control and political and social stability.

Mr. Sheehan also noted that President Xi does not appear to be as directly involved in regulating AI rules as he has been in other areas. In a 2019 speech, Xi emphasized China's commitment to making AI safe, secure, reliable, and controllable. The Central Science and Technology Commission and the National Data Administration, two new party organizations announced in March 2023, are expected to play significant roles in developing government policies on artificial intelligence.

For inquiries, you can reach Bill Gertz at [email protected].

FutureCar Staff