China’s eastern province Jiangsu has outlined plans to expand its artificial intelligence (AI) industry after President Xi Jinping urged the region to take a leading role in technology-driven economic development. Officials presented the strategy during China’s annual parliamentary meetings in Beijing.

Jiangsu is one of China’s most important economic centers. The province ranks as the country’s second-largest provincial economy and serves as a major manufacturing and export hub. In 2025, Jiangsu generated roughly 14 trillion yuan ($2 trillion) in economic output, highlighting its central role in China’s industrial growth strategy.

Consequently, authorities aim to strengthen AI development to support innovation and maintain competitiveness in advanced manufacturing.

🤖 Jiangsu Expands Artificial Intelligence Industry

Provincial officials say Jiangsu already hosts more than 1,500 artificial intelligence companies. The region also ranks second in China for computing capacity, which supports large-scale AI development.

In addition, the province currently operates 66 large AI models and has 283 algorithms registered with regulators. These technologies form the foundation of Jiangsu’s expanding AI ecosystem.

Therefore, authorities plan to integrate AI more deeply across industries such as manufacturing, logistics and transportation.

🏭 AI Integration Across Manufacturing and Infrastructure

Jiangsu officials are introducing several projects designed to expand AI use in industry. For example, the province plans 50 pilot applications of AI in logistics and infrastructure systems.

Meanwhile, manufacturers have already launched 186 smart production lines in sectors including automotive and environmental technology. These projects aim to improve efficiency and modernize traditional industries through automation and digital tools.

Consequently, the province hopes to accelerate the adoption of AI-driven production technologies.

📊 Cities Compete to Attract AI Investment

Local governments within Jiangsu are also promoting AI development. For instance, the city of Yangzhou has introduced subsidies for computing resources and programs designed to attract AI talent.

These incentives aim to strengthen the province’s technology ecosystem and encourage startups and research institutions to establish operations in the region.

At the same time, officials want to create stronger partnerships between technology companies, universities and manufacturing firms.

🌍 Xi Calls for Innovation-Driven Growth

President Xi Jinping urged Jiangsu to lead the development of “new quality productive forces,” a term used by Chinese policymakers to describe innovation-led economic growth.

The strategy aligns with China’s broader policy agenda, which promotes artificial intelligence and advanced technologies as key drivers of future economic development.

Consequently, provinces such as Jiangsu are expected to play a major role in implementing these national technology initiatives.