Shanghai Artificial Intelligence Conference Heats Up, A Preview of the Highlights of WAIC 2026
The Shanghai Artificial Intelligence Conference focuses on industrial upgrading and global governance, showcasing AI innovation strength Bringing together more than 140 forums and 1,400 guests, helping you seize new AI opportunities in Shanghai
On July 16, Shanghai was hit by sweltering weather, and the 2026 World Artificial Intelligence Conference and HighLevel Meeting on Global AI Governance also entered the preopening heatedup phase. Since the first conference was held in 2018, this exhibition has become an important platform for exchange and showcase in the global AI field.
The article reviews the development of Shanghai's artificial intelligence industry: from the first conference at Xuhui West Bund to later innovation hubs such as AI Tower and "Model Speed Space," Shanghai has gradually brought together industrial institutions, companies, and R&D resources. Data shows that the scale of Shanghai's artificial intelligence industry has grown from 134.0 billion yuan in 2018 to over 637.0 billion yuan in 2025, with an annual growth rate of 39.5%.
The report also notes that Shanghai continues to step up efforts in talent development and youth exchange. The city's related talent pool is close to 300,000, accounting for about onethird of the national total. This year's conference is expected to feature more than 140 forums, bring together over 1,400 Chinese and foreign guests, and work in coordination with multiple national ministries and commissions, key laboratories, and international organizations to continue promoting cooperation in the artificial intelligence industry and discussions on global governance.