Workers in China worry over being replaced as they adapt to the growing impact of AI on jobs

HONG KONG (AP) -- Computer programmer Fei Zhaojun was laid off along with 160 of his colleagues in Beijing, following his boss's inquiry about artificial intelligence potentially replacing human coders. This scenario is becoming increasingly common as AI reshapes China's expansive job market, driven by government policies. Rapid AI adoption in diverse fields, from coding to physical tasks, is causing job losses or anxiety among workers.

Contrary to fears, most Chinese people display positive or neutral attitudes towards AI, with many eager to explore AI-driven businesses and ventures. Fei, who once doubted AI's programming capabilities, is now creating short videos while seeking a new path. Du Qinchun, a translator, has gained temporary work by training an AI model for translations, despite a significant reduction in industry pay.

AI applications among Chinese industrial enterprises rose to 47.5% in 2024 from 9.6% in 2024, according to IDC. The trend is notable, with humanoid robots sorting parcels in postal centers and food delivery robots becoming more prevalent. Generative AI is increasingly used for creation, production, and distribution in China's short drama industry, leading to a 75% decline in live-action short videos over a year.

Women face higher risks of job loss due to AI, often working in more automatable sectors, while China's aging and shrinking population may eventually reduce unemployment rates.