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Huawei's Fourth Annual Digital Economy Development Forum at MWC Barcelona 2026

On March 5, 2026, Huawei held the fourth edition of its Digital Economy Development Forum at the MWC Barcelona 2026, a key event that brought together almost 100 digital strategy creators, industry experts, and representatives from various associations across regions such as Asia-Pacific, the Middle East, and Africa. The forum aimed to explore new opportunities for the advancement of the digital economy in the age of artificial intelligence (AI).

Opening the event was David Wang, Huawei's Executive Director of the Board. He shared innovative insights and practices surrounding significant topics such as policy, infrastructure, and talent development, all framed under the central theme, "From Vision to Value for an Intelligent Future."

AI is currently experiencing an explosive growth worldwide, with particular attention on what are termed 'AI agents.' There is also a rapid rollout of physical AI technologies. According to IDC, AI is projected to contribute a staggering $22.3 trillion to the global economy by 2030. This figure indicates a substantial shift in perspective; the digital economy is evolving beyond mere 'connectivity and data' to encompass a more complex interplay of 'AI and decision-making.' As AI transforms the global economic landscape, it is necessary to rethink and restructure traditional value chains.

Drawing from Huawei's extensive experience in the digital economy, Wang highlighted three crucial areas for global focus to achieve quality development in this domain. First, there is a necessity for favorable industrial policies that support the digital economy and drive coherent development between digital and real economies. Second, a future-oriented infrastructure is essential for the prosperity of the digital economy, laying the groundwork for the comprehensive application of digital technologies and transformative initiatives across various sectors. Third, the establishment of a multi-tiered and sustainable talent ecosystem is imperative, serving as a strategic pillar for the long-term viability of the digital economy.

In closing, Wang reaffirmed, "The era of AI is upon us. Huawei will continue to collaborate with partners to nurture intelligent industries and build a solid foundation for a smart world. Together, let's turn vision into value and shape our intelligent future."

Throughout the forum, participants also engaged in discussions regarding the future construction of digital infrastructure. Joyce Liu, Director of ICT Marketing Operations at Huawei, emphasized that digital infrastructure is fundamental for industrial development in the AI era. She stated that infrastructure construction must advance simultaneously across all fronts, including networks, energy, and computing power. Such endeavors require industries to establish low-latency network connections at the millisecond level promptly to prevent isolated data systems from hindering AI advancements. Moreover, it is crucial to accelerate the establishment of eco-friendly data centers to enhance computing power capabilities while simultaneously reducing carbon emissions.

Professor Rong Ke, Director of the Economics Institute at Tsinghua University, highlighted that data is a pivotal production factor in the age of AI. He noted that only by enhancing digital infrastructure throughout the processes of generation, transmission, storage, and application can the world fully harness the value of data.

The forum reached a significant consensus on critical issues surrounding the development of the digital economy. Countries are at different stages in this journey and thus require tailored strategies for AI development, adapting to their unique circumstances to effectively foster intelligent transformations.

Since its inception in 2023, the Huawei Digital Economy Development Forum has evolved into a premier communication platform based on innovation and collaboration, driving collective success across the globe. The MWC Barcelona 2026 runs from March 2 to 5, where Huawei will showcase its latest products and solutions at booth 1H50 in Hall Fira Gran Via 1. For more information, visit Huawei's MWC page.