The Promise and Perils of China’s Regulation of Artificial Intelligence

In recent years, China has emerged as a pioneer in formulating some of the world’s earliest and most comprehensive rules concerning algorithms, deepfakes, and generative artificial intelligence services. This proactive approach has led many to view China as a global frontrunner in AI regulation, while also raising concerns that Beijing’s approach may hinder innovation. In this talk, Professor Zhang will challenge this widely-held perception, revealing a more intricate and strategic regulatory landscape in China.

Drawing upon insights from her newly released book, “High Wire: How China Regulates Big Tech and Governs Its Economy,” Professor Zhang will explore the multifaceted nature of China’s institutional dynamics and their impact on AI regulation. She will also provide an in-depth analysis of the Chinese government’s nuanced strategy, which leverages the expressive power of the law to strategically enable the growth of its AI industry. Additionally, she will discuss the implications of China’s approach to AI enforcement for the domestic industry, the global tech rivalry, and the prospects for international cooperation.

Join us for this engaging and informative talk as we delve into the dynamic complexities of China’s AI regulatory landscape and its broader implications for the future of AI governance.

Angela Zhang is an Associate Professor of Law at the University of Hong Kong and Director of the Philip K. H. Wong Center for Chinese Law. Widely recognized as a leading authority on China’s tech regulation, Angela has written extensively on this topic. She is the author of “Chinese Antitrust Exceptionalism: How the Rise of China Challenges Global Regulation” (Oxford, 2021), which was named one of the Best Political Economy Books of 2021 by ProMarket. Angela’s second book, “High Wire: How China Regulates Big Tech and Governs Its Economy,” was released by Oxford University Press in March 2024. In fall 2024, Angela will join the University of Southern California as a Professor of Law. For more information, please visit her website at AngelaZhang.net, and follow her on Twitter @AngelaZhangHK.

High Wire: How China Regulates Big Tech and Governs Its Economy, available here: global.oup.com/academic/product/high-wire-9780197682258?cc=us&lang=en (use promotion code ALAUTHC4 to get 30% off)

The Promise and Perils of China’s Regulation of Artificial Intelligence, available here: papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=4708676

Generative AI and Copyright: A Dynamic Perspective, available here: papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=4716233