China’s investment may awaken the West
If China starts to produce leading AI developments, the West may respond. Whether it’s a “Sputnik moment” or a more gradual realization that they’re losing their lead, policymakers may feel pressure to change regulations and provide funding for AI.
More national and regional strategies will come
More countries should issue AI strategies, with implications for companies. It wouldn’t surprise us to see Europe, which is already moving to protect individuals’ data through its General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), issue policies to foster AI in the region.
Collaboration may come too
National competition for AI will never cease—there’s too much money at stake. But we do expect growing opportunities, facilitated by the UN, the World Economic Forum and other multilateral organizations, for countries to collaborate on AI research in areas of international concern.