China is accelerating the use of artificial intelligence to improve grassroots governance, with lightweight and cost-effective AI tools enhancing community services and public administration.

At the 2026 World Artificial Intelligence Conference, Shanghai unveiled an AI community assistant that provides personalized public services through localized databases, voice interaction, and digital service maps.

Across the country, local governments are deploying AI for practical governance. Beijing’s Miyun District developed a flood-control mini program for visualized disaster monitoring, while Jiangsu and Anhui are using AI assistants and smart monitoring systems to handle resident inquiries and improve urban management.

China is also strengthening oversight of AI applications by improving data security, reducing algorithmic risks, and enhancing officials’ digital literacy to ensure technology serves the public good.

Source: People’s Daily