Publications

CSET produces evidence-driven analysis in a variety of forms, from informative graphics and translations to expert testimony and published reports. Our key areas of inquiry are the foundations of artificial intelligence — such as talent, data and computational power — as well as how AI can be used in cybersecurity and other national security settings. We also do research on the policy tools that can be used to shape AI’s development and use, and on biotechnology.

Analysis

Chinese Critiques of Large Language Models

William Hannas, Huey-Meei Chang, Maximilian Riesenhuber, and Daniel Chou
| January 2025

Large generative models are widely viewed as the most promising path to general (human-level) artificial intelligence and attract investment in the billions of dollars. The present enthusiasm notwithstanding, a chorus of ranking Chinese scientists regard this singular approach to AGI as ill-advised. This report documents these critiques in China’s research, public statements, and government planning, while pointing to additional, pragmatic reasons for China’s pursuit of a diversified research portfolio.

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Translation

Implementation Opinions of the National Development and Reform Commission and Other Ministries on Promoting the High-Quality Development of the Data Labeling Industry

March 25, 2025

Read our translation of a Chinese government policy designed to encourage the growth of the data labeling industry, an important enabler for the AI sector.

Translation

Guide to the 2025 Annual Projects for the Major Research Program on Explainable and Generalizable Next-Generation Artificial Intelligence Methods

March 24, 2025

Read our translation of a guide that announces China’s funding priorities for explainable and generalizable AI basic research in 2025.

Translation

(Trial) Measures for Science and Technology Ethics Reviews (Draft for Feedback)

March 17, 2025

Read our translation of draft measures that describe a process for ethics reviews of Chinese scientific research.

Translation

Guiding Opinions on Strengthening the Governance of Science and Technology Ethics (Draft for Feedback)

March 13, 2025

Read our translation of a draft Chinese policy document from 2021 that lays out a basic framework for assessing ethical problems with scientific research.

Translation

Chinese Catalogue of Technologies Prohibited or Restricted from Export

February 11, 2025

Read our translation of China’s catalog of prohibited and restricted exports, as of its most recent revision in December 2023.

Translation

Song-Chun Zhu: The Race to General Purpose Artificial Intelligence is not Merely About Technological Competition; Even More So, it is a Struggle to Control the Narrative

January 29, 2025

Read out translation of an interview of Chinese AI expert Song-Chun Zhu, who argues that China’s AI industry should chart a different course than the current U.S. focus on data- and compute-heavy large language models.

Translation

Guiding Opinions on Promoting the Development of New-Style Research and Development Institutions

January 14, 2025

Read our translation of a Chinese government policy document that encourages the creation of “new-style R&D institutions,” which differ from traditional Chinese laboratories and research institutes in that they are not state-run and have additional sources of income besides government funding.

Translation

Four Chinese Industry Associations Issue Statements Condemning U.S. Sanctions

December 17, 2024

Read our translation of statements issued by four Chinese industry associations condemning the December 2, 2024 U.S. sanctions against Chinese companies.

Translation

National Standard of the People’s Republic of China: Cybersecurity Technology – Basic Safety Requirements for Generative Artificial Intelligence Services (Draft for Feedback)

December 5, 2024

Read our translation of a draft Chinese national standard addressing the safety and security of generative AI services.

Translation

Ministry of Commerce Notice 2024 No. 46: Notice Concerning Strengthening Controls on Exports of Relevant Dual-Use Items to the United States

December 3, 2024

Read our translation of a notice from China’s Ministry of Commerce that bans the export of gallium, germanium, antimony, and superhard materials to the United States.