시진핑 ‘AI 인프라’ 강조한 날…중국, AI 포함 40개 기술 수출통제 추진

Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of "AI infrastructure" in a recent statement, as China moves to restrict the export of 40 key technology sectors, including artificial intelligence. This move aims to protect the country's AI industry and prevent the misuse of potentially dangerous technologies. However, the restriction could limit China's open model approach, which has allowed Chinese companies to expand their influence in global markets through affordable services.

The 40 technology sectors targeted for export control comprise 23 AI-related technologies, 12 solar energy technologies, and 5 biopharmaceutical technologies. Of these, 14 are subject to export bans while the rest face export restrictions. China's authorities explain that these measures are intended to prevent the misuse of technologies that could threaten national security and prevent the leakage of core technologies.

Some AI technologies developed using China's critical data will be under export bans, while advanced AI model technologies that required significant computing resources to develop will be subject to export restrictions. However, China will allow the export of AI services provided through internet platforms or mobile apps, as these are not considered technology exports.

The new regulations could impact Chinese AI companies' strategies for selling their AI models to foreign companies and installing them on foreign servers, which may lead to short-term adaptation costs for companies expanding in overseas markets. Chinese authorities are concerned about the possession of foreign companies owning Chinese AI technology.

Hong Kong South China Morning Post's Zhang Weiping suggested that the new regulation may affect the controversial issue of Chinese-owned AI company Mannus' overseas sale. This move may reflect the ongoing US-China technology competition, which is increasingly focusing on the transfer and use of key technologies. China is simultaneously protecting its core technologies and accelerating the development of its AI capabilities.

President Xi Jinping visited a data center in Urumqi, Xinjiang, emphasizing the importance of building a nationwide computing infrastructure and efficient power utilization. The 'East-to-West' project in Urumqi is a key hub for the project.