China Unveils 15th Five-Year Plan for AI and 6G

The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology has unveiled an industrial upgrading roadmap as part of the 15th Five-Year Plan for 2026-2030. The strategy focuses on artificial intelligence, green energy, and next-generation communications to drive economic growth.

As part of this initiative, the ministry formulated nearly 200 key AI standards to ensure orderly development. Vice Minister Xin Guobin stated that AI is now integrated across the entire industrial chain, including research, design, production, and maintenance. To support this transition, several cities are organizing AI ethics reviews and service practices.

The plan also targets environmental and connectivity milestones, including the establishment of 500 zero-carbon factories and the acceleration of 6G technology trials to prepare for commercial deployment. Director Liu Yulin noted that continuous trials and standards development are essential for the 6G rollout.

Beyond AI and communications, the government intends to optimize insurance policies and reduce maintenance costs for new energy vehicles to boost consumer confidence. The broader strategy emphasizes growth in integrated circuits, aerospace, quantum technology, and brain-computer interfaces, while cultivating specialized small and medium enterprises known as little giants in the manufacturing sector.