China ‘cements global AI leadership’ as Hong Kong builds niche as innovation hub
Beijing’s state-led strategy is among governance models shaping AI competitiveness worldwide, think tank Deep Knowledge Group says
China has cemented its position as a global leader in artificial intelligence, while Hong Kong is carving out a niche as a specialised innovation hub, underpinned by the country’s strong governance and regulatory competitiveness, according to a global index.
Technology breakthroughs such as the low-cost, highly efficient AI models introduced by start-up DeepSeek, combined with national support, propelled China to the forefront of the global AI race, alongside the US, the European Union and Japan, according to the latest report by think tank Deep Knowledge Group released on Wednesday.
The Global AI Competitiveness Index, now in its fourth edition, included inputs from the Financial Services Development Council (FSDC), an industry advisory body to the Hong Kong government. It mapped out the policy and regulatory stances of about 25 territories, as a committee of AI experts identified the unique strengths and challenges of each.
This year’s study did not include a ranking, but grouped jurisdictions into categories to showcase their respective AI journeys.