Shanghai has emerged as a trailblazer in the field of artificial intelligence — having cultivated a robust industry ecosystem encompassing foundational algorithms, cutting-edge core chips, intelligent software and hardware solutions, as well as diverse industry applications.

Through a dedicated focus on core technologies, innovative applications scenarios, ecosystem enrichment and talent cultivation, the city has consolidated its position as a leader in the AI landscape.

I. Key segments

AI chips

• General-purpose computing
• System-on-chip
• Intelligent cloud-based servers

Large AI models

• Large AI foundation models
• Industry-specific large AI models for vertical applications

AI robots

• Humanoid robots
• AI industrial robots
• AI service robots

AI for science

• AI-driven scientific research

Intelligent software

• General-purpose Al-powered operating systems and controlling software
• Cloud computing service platforms

II. Development opportunities

Growing industry scale

• The scale of Shanghai's AI industry exceeded 450 billion yuan ($62.77 billion) in 2024.
• The total number of AI industrial enterprises above the designated size surpassed 380.

Upgraded technical support

• The total intelligent computing power of Shanghai's public service platforms exceeded 60 EFlops (FP16).
• Construction of high-level autonomous driving training facilities is underway, with 100 data collection vehicles deployed at scale on roads.

Exemplary application scenarios

• Shanghai saw the registration of 60 generative AI service large models, ranking second in China.
• Shanghai ranked first nationally with 68 industry-specific generative AI applications registered.
• 8 enterprises were recognized as AI-empowered New Material Application Demonstration Enterprises in Shanghai.
• The world's first autonomous standing control algorithm for humanoid robots was released.

III. Industry support

Industry associations

• Shanghai AI Development Alliance (SAA)
• Shanghai AI Industry Association (SAIA)
• Shanghai AI Technology Association (SAITA)

Conventions and exhibitions

• Global Developer Conference (GDC)
• World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC)

Industry platforms

• Shanghai Artificial Intelligence Research Institute (SAIRI)
• Shanghai Foundation Model Innovation Center (SMC)
• Model Power Community

IV. Industry Map

V. Spatial layout: '4 + X'

4 core clusters

Zhangjiang area in Pudong New Area: Integrating sci-tech innovation and the smart industry; Zhangjiang AIsland sets a benchmark for China's AI industry. 

West Bund in Xuhui district: The International AI Tower is in service; the Shanghai Foundation Model Innovation Center provides five public service platforms and an innovation community with complete functions.

Maqiao town in Minhang district: The Maqiao AI Innovation Experimental Zone bolsters the regional development with the specialized leading industries, creating a model for future smart cities featuring smart production, smart living, and smart ecology.

Lin-gang Special Area: Relying on the International Data Port to develop AI sectors related to the cross-border digital economy.

Multiple specialized parks

Shibei Hi-Tech Park, Changyang Campus, Hongqiao Smart Valley, Universal Software Park, Qingpu West Hongqiao Smart Valley and others.

Source: 2025 Shanghai Foreign Investment Guide