AI Visions and Innovations Forge the Future at WAIC 2025 in Shanghai

On July 27, industry leaders in artificial intelligence gathered for an insightful roundtable discussion during the World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) 2025 held in Shanghai. This event marked a significant moment in exploring the role of AI within global contexts, highlighting China's increasing influence in shaping future developments.

The event, themed "Intelligent Dialogues, Shared Future," showcased a blend of voices from academia and the business sector. Prominent figures included Jeff Shi, president of SenseTime's Asia-Pacific business, Wang Lei, chairman of Beijing-based Wenge Tech, and Wang Guanchun, CEO of Laiye Technology. Each participant contributed their unique perspectives on how AI is transforming various industries and enhancing everyday life.

Over the years, Shanghai has positioned itself as a beacon of innovation in the AI space. As the city strives to become a global hub for advanced technologies, the discussions at WAIC underscored its commitment to international collaboration and policy development in AI. The sessions at the Shanghai Tower not only focused on China’s strategies for AI growth but also highlighted successful examples of collaborative projects that emphasize the benefits of global partnerships.

In the first session, the conversation revolved around China’s strategic approach to AI, emphasizing supportive government policies, collaborative international frameworks, and innovations in algorithms. Wang Lei noted, "Artificial intelligence is profoundly transforming various aspects of our society and economy." His acknowledgment of the DeepSeek model’s open-source development serves as a testament to China's commitment to democratizing AI access, making it more available to entrepreneurs and organizations worldwide.

Adding to the global perspective, Michael Chan, CEO of Zand Bank, presented a case study of his company's partnership with Ant Digital Technologies from China. Their collaboration on financial reasoning models exemplifies how Chinese AI technologies are making waves across international markets, lowering barriers for financial institutions eager to embrace AI. This discussion illustrated that the advancements in AI transcended geographical boundaries, fostering a collaborative environment that benefits global financial systems.

The second session took a more practical view, focusing on the applications of AI technology that positively influence daily lives. Speakers emphasized the importance of applying AI for the greater good. Zhu Guangxiang of Baidu Miaoda articulated a powerful message when he stated that AI should not simply be a privilege for a few but rather a technological celebration for everyone. His comments aimed at driving home the point that every industry stands to benefit from AI, reiterating the potential to enhance productivity, efficiency, and ultimately, quality of life for all.

With a spotlight on Shanghai’s innovative ecosystem, various company representatives shared their insights on how the city’s vibrant business environment supports AI initiatives. Jeff Shi highlighted the monumental insights gained from a decade of AI development, expressing eagerness to share these lessons with other global enterprises.

Furthermore, Zhu Bin, global sales general manager of ULS Robotics, discussed the company's growth in Shanghai, attributing its success to a thriving AI environment that fosters collaboration among partners providing the necessary technological support. Established in 2003, this robotic firm has risen to prominence in the field of exoskeleton technology, illustrating that Shanghai offers not only a dynamic space for innovation but a complete industrial chain nurturing AI growth.

Overall, WAIC 2025 served as a platform for innovative dialogues that empowered participants to exchange ideas and engage in collaborative efforts aimed at refining AI's role in society. Shanghai's initiatives underscore not only a commitment to technological progress but also a vision of inclusivity in accessing these advancements. As the global AI landscape continues to evolve, the contributions discussed at the WAIC can serve as a roadmap for other cities aspiring to make a similar impact in the world of AI.