Chinese Cities Adopt DeepSeek Technology to Enhance Smart Governance
Transforming Governance with AI in China
Overview of AI in Public Administration
China is experiencing a significant transformation powered by artificial intelligence (AI), with many local governments integrating advanced AI technologies into public administration and urban management. This shift aims to improve efficiency and enhance overall governance, responding to the public’s increasing demand for better governmental services. The initiative reflects China’s broader objective of establishing a digital government that fosters an efficient administration.
Shenzhen Leading the Way
One of the most notable examples of this transformation is Shenzhen, a tech hub in southern China recognized for its advanced technology initiatives. This city has become the first in the nation to implement the DeepSeek AI model in its government services. The Longgang district of Shenzhen was a pioneer, completing the integration of the DeepSeek-R1 model into its governmental framework in early February. This groundbreaking model is now providing intelligent assistance to more than 20,000 civil servants.
AI Integration into Daily Operations
In addition to enhancing the work of civil servants, Longgang has included an AI assistant powered by DeepSeek in a mini-program on WeChat, making it easier for businesses to access services. Following these developments, Shenzhen’s Futian district introduced 70 "AI employees," designed to support various administrative functions, including:
- Public document processing
- Public services
- Emergency management
- Investment promotion
These AI-powered assistants streamline 240 different administrative scenarios, significantly boosting government efficiency. For instance, the accuracy of document processing has reached 95%, while review times have decreased by 90%. Furthermore, the AI assistants have improved the handling of public service requests, increasing accuracy from 70% to 95% and cutting down the time required for customized administrative services from five days to mere minutes.
Efforts Beyond Major Cities
China’s commitment to incorporating AI into governance extends beyond premier cities like Shenzhen. In Linyi, located in East China’s Shandong province, the DeepSeek model is being used particularly in the financial sector. The local "Yimeng Insight" system aggregates business data to create credit profiles for companies, which aids in securing financial support. Since its launch, this system has generated profiles for over 14,000 businesses, facilitating loan approvals totaling 3.66 billion yuan (around $510 million).
The Bigger Picture: Advancements in E-Governance
These initiatives underscore China’s determination to leverage digital technologies for smarter governance. Over the years, the country has made significant advancements in e-governance, developing one-stop service platforms and virtual public services to enhance administrative efficiency.
In the latest government work report, Chinese authorities reaffirmed their commitment to accelerating the formation of a digital government, with a focus on improving the integrated national online service platform.
Enhancing Public Services with AI
Experts highlight that AI technologies like DeepSeek can greatly enhance public service efficiency through automated content generation and intelligent user interactions. This move towards modernization aims to upgrade urban governance systems and capabilities. Wu Yiping, a professor at Shanghai University of Finance and Economics, emphasizes that such transformations are essential for advancing governance in urban areas.
Addressing Challenges in AI Governance
Despite the benefits, integrating AI into public governance comes with challenges. Experts are raising important concerns regarding data security, privacy, and ethical implications. Wu Shenkuo, deputy director of the Internet Society of China’s research center, warns against excessive reliance on AI, which could lead to systemic risks.
Additionally, the ethical considerations surrounding AI-assisted governance decisions need to be carefully assessed to ensure fairness and transparency. As AI continues to evolve in public administration, it is crucial to maintain a balance that safeguards individual rights while enhancing public service delivery.
