By
Svetlana Soroka
April 30th, 2024
As part of the rules, China will require a license from companies developing AI tools, obtainable before product launch.
China is currently mulling tighter rules to govern and supervise the creation and application of generative artificial technology (AI) tools. Although the Beijing government supports AI in general, authorities are reportedly trying to ensure that it continues to have some control over generated content.
According to a Financial Times report, the Cyberspace Administration of China intends to create a license that all companies intending to publish generative AI must obtain. Government officials are already working hard on these regulations and hoping a draft will be available before the end of July.
According to a person familiar with the matter, as referenced by Financial Times, Beijing’s only way to control AI-generated information is to require this license before launch. However, the regulation must be carefully developed so that it doesn’t suffocate the companies and eventually set China behind other countries in the AI race.
China Proposed New AI Rules in April
In April, the CAC announced guidelines for AI models. According to the watchdog, AI companies in China must adhere to these rules by submitting all developed tools and products for security reviews before a public launch. Upon launch, AI companies must also verify all users so they can track usage.
The CAC specified that all AI-generated content must support socialist values and should not contain any pointers to subversion of power, incitement, or castigation of socialist ideologies. In addition, the rules encourage providers of generative AI to help users carefully apply the technology without harming the rights, reputation, or image of others. In addition, The provider must be able to either suspend or permanently prevent access to users who violate these rules. Furthermore, a user can report an AI company to the CAC if generated AI content violates the draft rules in any way.
AI Regulation in Other Nations
China is trying to ensure its new rules still keep its AI ecosystem in fierce competition with developments in other countries. Nations around the world are also trying to create regulations to guide generative AI content without stifling growth in the industry.
The United States seems to be taking its time with developing AI regulations in the country. In April, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), a part of the Commerce Department, said it would write a report to ensure AI tools function as advertised. The report would contain measures that guide AI development while preventing undue or harmful use of the technology.
Last June, the Canadian Parliament created a draft act to govern AI development. The Artificial Intelligence and Data Act (AIDA) sets the tone for the safe design and deployment of AI tools to mitigate potentially harmful side effects.
On the other hand, Parliament in the European Union has passed an act to regulate artificial intelligence in the country. With 499 of 620 votes in favor of the act, the EU ensures that AI development and deployment are responsible and properly regulated.