Beijing: China announced on Sunday plans to accelerate the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and big data in social welfare and elderly care services, as the nation seeks technological solutions to offset the challenges posed by its aging population. The move comes amid growing concerns over China’s declining birth rate and shrinking workforce.

Speaking at a news conference during China’s annual "Two Sessions" political gathering, Civil Affairs Minister Lu Zhiyuan emphasized the importance of integrating new technologies into social assistance programs. "We will accelerate the development and application of new technologies and products such as big data and artificial intelligence in the fields of social assistance, elderly care services, and services for the disabled," Lu said. He added that these advancements aim to make services "more convenient, more accessible, and more standardized."

Rising Elderly Population Fuels Need for Innovation
China's demographic data paints a stark picture. In 2024, the country's population declined for the third consecutive year. Over 310 million people—nearly a quarter of China's population—are aged 60 or older. With a dwindling workforce to support an expanding elderly population, the government is turning to AI-driven solutions to maintain social services and sustain economic growth.

AI Takes Center Stage in Local Governance
Local governments across China have already begun implementing AI technologies like DeepSeek's advanced AI model in their public services. Since the release of DeepSeek’s latest chatbot in January, authorities have integrated it into a variety of sectors, from healthcare to public administration.

Despite facing restrictions on purchasing high-end AI chips from the US, Chinese companies like DeepSeek have managed to develop competitive AI models. DeepSeek’s latest product has outperformed many Western counterparts in both capability and cost-efficiency.

Xi Jinping Urges Tech Sector to Lead the Way
President Xi Jinping has thrown his support behind the tech sector’s role in China's future. In a rare symposium held last month for private enterprises, Xi encouraged leaders from the AI and technology industries to "show their talents" and drive innovation. The event was attended by DeepSeek founder Liang Wenfeng, as well as executives from major tech firms like Tencent, Huawei, and Xiaomi.

China’s push for AI-driven elder care not only addresses the challenges of an aging society but also reflects the broader strategy of leveraging cutting-edge technologies to sustain economic momentum in the years ahead.