'New arena for strategic rivalry': China’s intelligence chief calls for regulations and guardrails on AI to prevent new arms race

China's State Security Minister Chen Yixin has called for strict regulations and safeguards surrounding the development of Artificial Intelligence, warning that the nascent technology is becoming a "new arena for strategic rivalry among major powers." In an article for China Cyberspace, an outlet run by the Cyberspace Administration of China, Yixin outlined five key risks associated with AI advancement.

Firstly, he expressed concern over ideological security, stating that AI could be exploited by hostile forces to generate fake news and divisive content. Secondly, he warned of the potential for critical information infrastructure to be compromised as AI models become more accessible, making cyberattacks quicker and easier.

Thirdly, Yixin highlighted the risk of data leaks, claiming that malicious actors are increasingly using AI to harvest sensitive information, including state secrets and personal data. He pointed to vulnerabilities in open-source AI tools like OpenClaw, which could lead to remote-triggered data spills. Fourthly, he cautioned about the development gap, arguing that a small number of major players are monopolizing the global AI supply chain and stifling competition.

Lastly, Chen urged the creation of early-warning mechanisms and public advisories to identify and expose foreign nation-state actors utilizing AI for espionage, data theft, and disinformation campaigns. While he did not name specific countries, the US administration has recently expressed concern over China's rapid AI development, with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent warning that a loss of AI dominance could have dire consequences.