Global Tech Firms Gather in Shanghai to Showcase AI Breakthroughs Amid U.S. Sanctions
More than 800 global technology companies, from Chinese giants like Huawei and Alibaba to Western players like Tesla, Alphabet, and Amazon, are converging in Shanghai for the 2025 World AI Conference (WAIC). The event underscores China’s accelerating push in artificial intelligence (AI) despite enduring U.S. sanctions on advanced technologies.
Scheduled over the weekend, the two-day conference will spotlight 3,000+ cutting-edge AI products, 40 large language models (LLMs), 50 AI-powered devices, and 60 intelligent robots, according to event organisers.
China Doubles Down on AI Despite U.S. Export Restrictions
Chinese Premier Li Qiang is expected to deliver the keynote address, emphasising AI’s strategic role in China’s national development. Beijing has declared AI self-sufficiency and leadership in high-tech innovation a cornerstone of its 2030 ambitions, placing the sector at the centre of its geopolitical and economic strategy.
These ambitions come at a time of rising tensions with the United States, where the Trump administration has intensified export controls on AI chips, chipmaking equipment, and advanced semiconductor tools, citing national security concerns and the potential for military use.
Despite these limitations, China’s AI ecosystem is thriving—driving breakthroughs and rivalling global competitors in performance and innovation.
Chinese AI Startups Rise Amid Sanctions
This year, Chinese startup DeepSeek shocked the global AI landscape with the release of a low-cost AI model that competes with offerings from U.S. leaders like OpenAI, but at a fraction of the development cost.
During a recent visit to Beijing, Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang called AI models from DeepSeek, Alibaba, and Tencent “world-class,” reaffirming that China remains a formidable force in the race for AI dominance.
International Participation Highlights Global Interest
Although U.S.-China tech relations remain strained, global firms are still participating in the WAIC. Notably:
- Tesla will showcase advancements in autonomous driving and robotics.
- Alphabet is expected to contribute through AI ethics and responsible use initiatives.
- Amazon will highlight cloud-based AI solutions and smart logistics.
Their involvement reflects both market opportunity and the strategic importance of AI development in China.
Highlights of the 2025 World AI Conference
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Participants | 800+ tech companies |
| Products Displayed | 3,000+ AI technologies |
| Large Language Models | 40+ from global and Chinese firms |
| Intelligent Devices | 50 AI-powered products |
| Robotics | 60 smart robots |
| Key Participants | Huawei, Alibaba, Tencent, Tesla, Alphabet, Amazon |
| Notable Startups | DeepSeek, Unitree (humanoid robotics) |
| Keynote Speaker | Premier Li Qiang |
Emerging AI robotics startups like Unitree, known for its humanoid robot innovations, will also be featured, demonstrating the diverse capabilities of China’s growing tech sector.
Conclusion: China’s AI Vision vs. U.S. Export Pressure
As AI becomes a defining force in global competitiveness, events like WAIC highlight China’s commitment to leading the AI revolution, regardless of foreign policy constraints.
With state support, rising homegrown talent, and continued global interest, China’s AI sector is not only enduring but expanding rapidly—paving the way for a more multipolar tech future.
