Cities across East China's Zhejiang province are ramping up efforts to build a competitive artificial intelligence industry, each adopting localized approaches to drive innovation and growth in the AI sector.

Hangzhou and Ningbo have made AI a central focus of local development planning. Wenzhou is prioritizing the integration of AI with digital security, while Taizhou is boosting AI to enhance its robotics sector. In Quzhou, officials held a dedicated seminar to promote the use of AI in industry, agriculture, and services.

At the provincial level, Zhejiang recently released a policy document titled Measures to Support the Innovative Development of Artificial Intelligence, which introduces 27 targeted initiatives. These measures focus on building a complete AI ecosystem, improving computing power and data access, encouraging model development, and expanding application scenarios.

The policy outlines Zhejiang's goal of establishing an AI industry ecosystem valued at one trillion yuan (about $138.5 billion). It also includes a consumer subsidy program that covers smart devices such as home robots, smart glasses, bionic systems, and health-related products. Consumers may receive up to 15 percent of the purchase price, with a maximum subsidy of 2,000 yuan per item.

By 2027, the province aims to build a sustainable, nationally leading AI framework. By 2030, it hopes to become globally competitive in core technologies and general AI applications.

Hangzhou remains the province's primary AI hub. In 2024, Zhejiang's AI industry generated an output value exceeding 570 billion yuan, with over 70 percent of profits attributed to companies based in the city.

Ningbo, meanwhile, is channeling AI into manufacturing upgrades. Its development plan includes expanding the supply of intelligent equipment and software for smart factories. Within three years, Ningbo aims to establish several national-level "AI+" demonstration projects in sectors such as green petrochemicals, new energy vehicles, and advanced materials.