China is launching 10 national data pilot zones as part of a major push to grow its digital economy and compete with the US in AI.
The National Data Administration (NDA) announced zones will be set up in places including Beijing, Zhejiang, and Anhui. These zones will focus on growing data markets and integrating digital and real economies, according to CCTV.
China’s digital sector is already massive. There are more than 190,000 data-related companies, and the market size topped 2 trillion yuan ($278.4 billion). It’s projected to hit 7.5 trillion yuan by 2030. 
The effort includes a three-year plan from 2024 to 2026 developed by 17 government agencies, including the NDA. It aims to double data transaction volumes and roll out 300+ data application scenarios.
China is clearly doubling down to secure an edge in the intense AI technology rivalry with the US.
The NDA said:
“nurturing data-related market entities and expanding the data market”
“unlock the potential of integrating the real economy with the digital economy”
The full plan and pilot zones signal China’s commitment to becoming a global data powerhouse fast.
