AI, science and the risks in China’s reliance on imported precision equipment

A leading Chinese researcher, Weinan E, a professor at Peking University, stated at the "AI for Science" conference in Shanghai that China's dependence on imported precision equipment could hinder its progress in applying AI to scientific research. E explained that sophisticated instruments, like mass spectrometers, are crucial for generating the high-quality experimental data necessary to develop and validate advanced scientific models. He likened the situation to "cooking without rice" if China lacks domestically produced precision instruments, as this would impede the acquisition of essential first-hand data for AI-driven scientific advancements.