The World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) 2026 opened in Shanghai on July 17, featuring more than 1,100 exhibiting companies [1].

The event signals China's ambition to lead both the technical development of robotics and the international regulatory framework governing artificial intelligence. By integrating consumer-facing robots with high-level diplomatic appeals, the conference positions the nation as a central hub for AI innovation.

The exhibition occupies a venue covering more than 100,000 square metres [1]. During the event, which runs from July 17 to July 20 [2], organizers unveiled more than 300 new AI products [3].

Attendees viewed a variety of specialized AI-controlled robots designed for service and entertainment. These include a pharmacy robot capable of selecting medicines while smiling, and a clothing-robot that serves tea. Other demonstrations featured robots trained for table tennis and soccer [1].

President Xi Jinping attended the opening ceremony to emphasize the need for international cooperation. He addressed the global community regarding the management of these technologies.

"China believes that it should work with all countries to build a fair and reasonable global artificial intelligence governance system," Xi said [1].

The scale of the exhibition reflects the rapid commercialization of AI in China. The presence of over 1,100 companies [1] highlights the breadth of the industry, ranging from specialized medical automation to general-purpose humanoid robots. The event serves as a primary showcase for how AI is transitioning from software-based tools to physical hardware capable of interacting with the real world.

“China believes that it should work with all countries to build a fair and reasonable global artificial intelligence governance system”

The WAIC 2026 demonstrates a strategic shift toward 'embodied AI,' where intelligence is integrated into physical robotics for healthcare and service sectors. By pairing these technological displays with calls for a 'fair and reasonable' global governance system, China is attempting to shape the international rules of AI engagement to ensure its domestic industry can scale globally without facing restrictive external barriers.