China to speed up development of nationwide computing network

China will accelerate the construction of a nationwide computing network and prioritize the development of high-quality data sets for artificial intelligence, according to a 2026 digital economy work plan released by the country's top data regulator on Tuesday. The plan emphasizes advancing data infrastructure projects and supporting demonstration facilities across industries to foster an integrated data market described as 'open, shared, and secure.' The regulator highlighted six major initiatives to strengthen data’s role in AI development, focusing on expanding foundational data resources, improving application support, and enhancing efficiency and quality. A key goal is creating benchmark data sets meeting 'AI-readiness' standards, capable of training advanced AI models and addressing practical industrial challenges. The work plan also aims to break down data silos and improve cross-regional data circulation, ensuring seamless data flow across China. Policies will be formulated to support an integrated national data market, fostering collaboration and reducing fragmentation in data access and usage. Notably, the initiatives include strengthening data management services, unlocking data value, and advancing data labeling capabilities. These measures are designed to ensure the data sets developed are both high-quality and industrially applicable, aligning with China’s broader push for technological self-sufficiency in AI. The plan reflects growing efforts to position China as a leader in AI-driven infrastructure, leveraging data as a strategic asset for economic and technological advancement.