China’s intelligence chief calls for global AI regulations to prevent arms race

Chen Yixin, China’s Minister of State Security, has issued a call for international guardrails on artificial intelligence, characterizing the rapid development of the technology as a new arena for strategic rivalry. In an article published by the Cyberspace Administration of China, Chen identified five primary risks associated with AI: ideological manipulation, threats to critical infrastructure, data leaks, development gaps, and espionage. He warned that without global cooperation, the competition for AI dominance could spiral into a dangerous arms race. The statement comes amid escalating geopolitical tensions, with US officials similarly expressing concerns over losing their competitive edge to China. While Chen did not explicitly name the United States, the rhetoric reflects a broader global struggle for technological supremacy. The call for early-warning mechanisms and public advisories highlights the growing urgency to establish international norms to manage the security implications of AI-driven espionage and disinformation campaigns.