Chinese Minister of Industry and Information Technology Li Lecheng Photo: VCG

Chinese Minister of Industry and Information Technology Li Lecheng said on Wednesday that in 2026, the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) will follow the requirements of the Government Work Report and vigorously promote the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and manufacturing, while advancing breakthroughs and iterative upgrades in next-generation AI products.

Li made the remarks when giving an interview after the opening meeting of the fourth session of the 14th National People's Congress (NPC) at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, on Wednesday. 

The MIIT will further promote technological iteration in AI computers, AI smartphones and smart home products, as well as strengthen technological breakthroughs in brain-computer interfaces, autonomous vehicles and humanoid robots. It will also accelerate the development of intelligent agricultural machinery and intelligent medical devices, enabling more smart products to meet the needs of industries and sectors across the economy, according to Li.

Li said China possesses a comprehensive industrial system, a large pool of innovation talent and a continuously improving innovation ecosystem. "We are confident and firmly believe that more world-class intelligent products will be produced on this fertile ground," the minister said.

China boats an industrial system with complete range of sectors ranking first globally, and production and sales of new-energy vehicles reached new highs and have ranked first in the world for 11 consecutive years, Li said. Investment in emerging sectors such as aerospace equipment and manufacturing equipment recorded double-digit growth, and the added value of high-tech manufacturing accounted for 36.8 percent and 17.1 percent respectively of total industrial added value, according to the minister.

The minister said that China will build on its advantages in manufacturing to further deepen the application of AI across industries. In 2026, China will vigorously promote "AI Plus manufacturing," further tapping the development potential of traditional industries and stimulating the innovation vitality of emerging industries, Li said. 

Li also emphasized the importance of balancing development and security in the advancement of the AI industry, noting that China will adhere to the principle that AI should serve, benefit and remain under the control of humanity. At the same time, China will uphold international cooperation and sharing in the AI field, jointly build governance frameworks and rules for AI, and ensure the technology benefits humanity, according to Li. 

Global Times