China's National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) has announced a three-year guidance program in which the country plans to increase the advancement of the nation's artificial intelligence (AI) sector.

According to the NDRC, the plan - which was devised together with China's Ministry of Science and Technology, the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, and the Cyberspace Administration of China - is expected to create new AI industries and economic growth which will result in a market value of over $15.26 million (100 billion Yuan) in the next three years.

Like Us on Facebook

The three-year program for "Internet Plus" AI indicated that the move will eventually see China developing "platforms for fundamental AI resources and innovation" by the year 2018. In the same year the country is expected to be at about the same level of the world's AI industry and technology, according to the NDRC website.

The move will focus on crucial areas in the realm of AI innovation promoting projects including artificial intelligent machines, robots, intelligent vehicles, smart unmanned systems, smart home appliances and smart wearable technologies.

Last year, China unveiled the Internet Plus action plan as part of the "Made in China 2025" initiative intended to encourage traditional industries to upgrade and take advantage of the Internet. The action plan seeks to integrate cloud computing, big data, mobile Internet, and the Internet of Things (IoT) with manufacturing. Furthermore, it also supports the development of e-commerce, Internet banking and industrial networks.

In March, NDRC's Minister Lin Nianxiu said in a state council in Beijing regarding the action plan's aim "to phase out backward production and foster new emerging businesses through the integration of Internet and traditional industries."

TagsChina Artificial Intelligence, AI, Internet Plus, National Development and Reform Commission, NDRC, Made in China 2025