On April 1, Guangdong announced measures aimed at accelerating innovation in its artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics industries. Among the 12 initiatives announced, the province pledged financial support of up to 50 million yuan for the national-level AI and robotics manufacturing innovation centers and up to 10 million yuan for provincial-level centers.

In 2024, Guangdong's core AI industry scale surpassed 220 billion yuan, maintaining its position as a national leader. The province has also made significant advancements in AI, such as Pengcheng Laboratory launching China's first fully self-developed exascale (E-level) AI computing platform and Guangming Laboratory establishing the country's first Ascend Research Institute. Currently, Guangdong is home to over 1,500 core AI enterprises.

Industrial robotics production in Guangdong from 2020 to 2024 (Poster: Cai Junru)

The industrial robotics production in Guangdong has surged from 44,700 units in 2019 to 246,800 units in 2024, accounting for 44% of China's total and ranking first for five consecutive years. The region has also developed a full industrial chain for humanoid robots, covering the brains, senses, and bodies.

Guangdong will roll out the "AI+" and "Robotics+" initiatives, driving applications in the industrial, healthcare, educational sectors, etc. The government will also support AI-driven industrial transformation by funding large-model projects and application solutions in manufacturing, with a maximum grant of 8 million yuan. Additionally, local governments are encouraged to offer further incentives, with the provincial finance matching these funds on a 1:1 basis.

Guangdong has actively invested in AI and robotics projects through government investment funds, exceeding 23 billion yuan in total. For 2025, the province has allocated 26.2 billion yuan of initial budget under its manufacturing projects, which include AI and robotics fields.

Press conference announced measures aimed at accelerating innovation in AI and robotics industries in Guangdong (Photo: Nanfang Plus)

Foreign investment incentives have also been introduced, allowing AI and robotics companies to receive up to 3% of their investment amount as subsidies, with a cap of 150 million yuan per project.

Guangdong plans to organize 332 overseas trade exhibitions this year, supporting nearly 30,000 enterprises in expanding their international business. Among them, 40 exhibitions will focus on AI and robotics. The upcoming 137th Canton Fair's first phase will feature a newly established service robotics section, showcasing 46 robotics companies, including 16 from Guangdong.

The province also attracts talent development and innovation through competitions. Dedicated AI and robotics contests will be introduced in major events such as the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Postdoctoral Innovation and Entrepreneurship Competition. Additionally, efforts are underway to establish a robust framework of industry standards and regulations to support sustainable growth.