China launches state-owned data group to boost AI

China inaugurated National Data Group Co. on Oct. 20, 2026, in Xiongan New Area, Hebei province, about 100 km southwest of Beijing. The new state-owned enterprise is directly administered by the central government and brings the total of such SOEs to 100. It is tasked with developing and utilizing data resources, serving AI development, fostering a data industry ecosystem, promoting cross-industry and cross-regional data flow and sharing, exploring new business models, and expanding the data market. It is positioned as a national team for data services and a leader in data infrastructure connectivity. Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang attended the launch. State media quoted him calling it a major strategic decision and saying China must seize the initiative in AI development, accelerate the construction of a digital China, and build new national competitive advantages. He also said the establishment is of great significant for seizing opportunities in artificial intelligence and strengthening China's competitive edge. The National Data Administration, set up in 2023, handles policy design while the group focuses on market operations and implementation. Contested: none found in the record.