Peer Watch

China’s Embodied AI: A Path to AGI

William Hannas, Huey-Meei Chang, Valentin Weber, and Daniel Chou
| December 2025

China is embracing “embodied AI”—artificial intelligence integrated with physical agents, such as robots and drones—both for commercial reasons and as a path to artificial general intelligence (AGI). The trend reflects China’s signature approach to AI, which recognizes diverse paths to AI dominance vis-à-vis the large models favored in the United States. This report documents PRC support for AI embodiment, describes how it is understood by China’s research community, and maps out the related infrastructure.

The Diplomat interviews William C. Hannas and Huey-Meei Chang on myths and misinformation that have persisted in the policy ecosystem around China's development of AI.

CSET’s Kathleen Curlee shared her expert analysis in an article published by TIME. The article discusses the growing hazards posed by space debris, highlighting a recent incident in which China’s Shenzhou-20 spacecraft was struck by orbital debris, delaying the return of its crew from the Tiangong Space Station.

CSET’s Sam Bresnick shared his expert analysis in an op-ed published by Nikkei Asia. In his piece, he explores the evolving role of U.S. technology companies in international security, particularly in times of conflict, and examines the contrast between their decisive support for Ukraine during Russia’s 2022 invasion and the uncertainty surrounding their potential response in a Taiwan-China crisis.

To protect Europeans from the risks posed by artificial intelligence, the EU passed its AI Act last year. This month, the EU released a Code of Practice to help providers of general purpose AI comply with the AI Act. This blog reviews the measures set out in the new Code’s safety and security chapter, assesses how they compare to existing practices, and what the Code’s global impact might be.

CSET Lead Analyst Dr. William Hannas testified before the House Judiciary Subcommittee on the Courts, Intellectual Property, and the Internet for its hearing, "Intellectual Property and Strategic Competition with China: Part 3 - IP Theft, Cybersecurity, and AI."

Newsweek profiled a CSET report on China's alternative approaches to developing artificial general intelligence.

Wuhan’s AI Development

William Hannas, Huey-Meei Chang, and Daniel Chou
| May 2025

Wuhan, China’s inland metropolis, is paving the way for a nationwide rollout of “embodied” artificial intelligence meant to fast-track scientific discovery, optimize production, streamline commerce, and facilitate state supervision of social activities. Grounded in real-world data, the AI grows smarter, offering a pathway to artificial “general” intelligence that will reinforce state ideology and boost economic goals. This report documents the genesis of Wuhan’s AGI initiative and its multifaceted deployment.

In response to the Office of Science and Technology Policy's request for input on an AI Action Plan, CSET provides key recommendations for advancing AI research, ensuring U.S. competitiveness, and maximizing benefits while mitigating risks. Our response highlights policies to strengthen the AI workforce, secure technology from illicit transfers, and foster an open and competitive AI ecosystem.