Warnings from U.S. tech executives about AI’s existential risks are increasingly met with skepticism in China. Many in the country’s technology sector and government view calls to slow AI development as a Western strategy to maintain its lead and stifle Chinese competitors.
From this perspective, U.S. focus on worst-case scenarios amounts to fearmongering that could justify regulations and export controls that disproportionately affect China’s fast-growing AI industry.
Chinese officials acknowledge AI risks but often focus on more immediate threats, including political misinformation and cybersecurity, rather than speculative long-term dangers. This difference in risk perception complicates efforts to establish shared global AI safety and governance norms.