China has announced the creation of a state-backed fund to support AI, tech innovation, and emerging industries.
The fund, called the 'state venture capital guidance fund,' will focus on cutting-edge areas like AI, quantum technology, and hydrogen energy storage.
With a potential funding of nearly 1 trillion yuan ($138 billion) over 20 years, the fund aims to attract capital from local governments and the private sector.
China's move comes in response to mounting pressure from American tech restrictions and is seen as a step towards achieving semiconductor self-sufficiency.