China Tech Goes Global: How AI and digital platforms are unlocking overseas markets

As a key platform for China's opening up in trade in services, this year's China International Fair for Trade in Services (CIFTIS) has showcased a range of cutting-edge technological achievements across its four overseas service exhibition zones. With telecommunications, computer and information services among its key sectors, the event offers a glimpse into the evolving landscape of China's global technology expansion.

With greater international participation, this year's event underscores the growing role of services in global trade and China's resolve and confidence in advancing high-standard opening up.

For years, China's technology exports have been heavily reliant on intelligent hardware and equipment, with cost-effective physical products gaining a foothold in overseas markets. Driven by accelerating digital and intelligent transformation, however, the forms of China's technology going global are expanding beyond hardware. Artificial intelligence (AI), digital platforms, cloud and computing services, as well as integrated software-and-hardware solutions, are emerging as increasingly important forms of cross-border technology services.

Digitalization and green development are becoming important drivers of services trade, while technologies such as AI and big data are being increasingly integrated into a wide range of service sectors. At this year's CIFTIS, innovation has featured prominently, with exhibitors showcasing technological breakthroughs alongside their practical applications in different industries and markets.

At the same time, divergent data regulations and rising compliance requirements in overseas markets mean that going global is no longer simply a matter of exporting technological capabilities. Localized adaptation, data security and compliant cross-border data flows have become increasingly important as Chinese AI and digital technologies expand into overseas markets.

The shift from product exports toward technology and capability empowerment is opening new avenues for Chinese companies to participate in global digital industrial cooperation.

(With input from Xinhua)