China to Accelerate Use of Artificial Intelligence and Big Data in Elderly and Social Care
Government’s Move to Drive Economic Growth Amidst Ageing Population
China has announced plans to accelerate the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and big data in elderly and social care, as it seeks to drive economic growth despite a declining workforce and low birth rate. The move is aimed at making services more convenient, accessible, and standardised, according to civil affairs minister Lu Zhiyuan.
Population Crisis
China’s population fell for the third year in a row in 2024, with over 310 million people aged 60 and over. As a result, the government has been grappling with the challenges posed by an ageing population and a shrinking workforce. To address this issue, the government has increasingly looked to technology to drive future economic growth.
AI and Big Data in Social Care
The government plans to accelerate the development and application of new technologies and products such as big data and AI in the fields of social assistance, elderly care services, and services for the disabled. Local governments have already rushed to implement DeepSeek’s AI model into their services since the privately run Chinese company released the latest version of its chatbot in January.
AI Model Outperforms Western Competitors
DeepSeek’s cut-price model outperformed many of its Western AI competitors, despite US curbs on sales of advanced AI chips to Chinese companies. The company’s AI model has been widely adopted by local governments, which have seen significant improvements in the efficiency and effectiveness of their social care services.
Government Support for AI Sector
President Xi Jinping has expressed official support for the sector, telling private companies to "show their talents" during a rare symposium last month. The event was attended by representatives from top technology firms such as Tencent, Huawei, and Xiaomi, as well as DeepSeek’s founder Liang Wenfeng.
Conclusion
China’s decision to accelerate the use of AI and big data in elderly and social care is a significant step towards addressing the challenges posed by an ageing population and a shrinking workforce. The government’s support for the sector is also a testament to the growing importance of technology in driving economic growth in China.
FAQs
- What is China’s plan for using AI and big data in elderly and social care?
China plans to accelerate the development and application of new technologies and products such as big data and AI in the fields of social assistance, elderly care services, and services for the disabled. - What is the purpose of the plan?
The plan aims to make services more convenient, accessible, and standardised, and to drive economic growth in China’s ageing population. - How does DeepSeek’s AI model compare to Western competitors?
DeepSeek’s cut-price model outperformed many of its Western AI competitors, despite US curbs on sales of advanced AI chips to Chinese companies. - What is President Xi Jinping’s position on the AI sector?
President Xi Jinping has expressed official support for the sector, telling private companies to "show their talents" during a rare symposium last month.