A woman visits the permanent exhibition at the Zhongguancun Exhibition Center in Beijing, capital of China
Artificial intelligence is entering a new era as businesses invest heavily in AI systems capable of operating autonomously across industries. At the same time, governments are increasingly focused on regulating AI systems moving beyond digital environments into robotics, transport, logistics, and public infrastructure.
Approximately, three-quarters of CEOs now identify themselves as the primary decision-makers on AI strategy within their organisations. Companies are expected to double AI spending this year, with firms investing heavily in automation, data systems, AI infrastructure, and workforce training.
The rise of “agentic AI”, systems able to plan, act, retrieve information, and complete multi-step workflows, is becoming central to corporate strategy. Nearly all CEOs surveyed believe AI agents will generate measurable returns in 2026.
The shift is also transforming leadership structures. Many CEOs now effectively function as “Chief AI Officers” as AI increasingly shapes operations, productivity, talent management, and long-term business strategy.
