Jinan, capital of East China's Shandong province, has recently issued an action plan for the high-quality development of the next-generation artificial intelligence (AI) industry (2024-26), which outlines the city's ambitious goals and specific measures to drive AI development, with an aim to position itself at the forefront of AI innovation nationwide.

By 2026, Jinan expects to foster 500 AI enterprises, with the output of the sector exceeding 60 billion yuan ($8.2 billion), according to the plan.

The plan also calls for the development of 50 large-scale AI products across various sectors, the cultivation of over 300 typical AI application scenarios, the implementation of more than 1,000 AI demonstration projects, and the establishment of 10 AI industrial clusters and three AI demonstration zones, solidifying Jinan's position as a global leader in developing the AI industry.

To achieve these targets, Jinan will focus on enhancing intelligent computing power, optimizing data resources, and improving fundamental software and hardware capabilities.

The city will expedite the construction of major projects such as the Jinan AI computing center and advance industry-wide data connectivity and basic software development, the plan states.

Emphasizing the construction of a digital Jinan, the plan calls for the empowerment of AI across various sectors, including industry, agriculture, services, government, and society, through six specific tasks centered on AI application empowerment and innovation.

Jinan's commitment to fostering a thriving AI ecosystem underscores its dedication to technological advancement and economic growth, setting a solid foundation for the city's future as a hub of AI innovation and development.