US leads AI race, but China excels in key areas, Beijing professor says

Shift toward bilateral US-China AI governance framework; potential elevation of both powers as joint standard-setters in global AI regulation, marginalizing other nations from regulatory influence; China's sectoral competitiveness strengthens its negotiating position despite overall US lead.

Similar to Cold War-era nuclear non-proliferation agreements (NPT) where rival superpowers cooperated on existential technology governance despite broader competition.

Consumers may benefit from competitive AI innovation but face potential price increases if regulatory frameworks increase compliance costs. Data privacy protections could improve under international standards, though implementation timelines remain uncertain.

Likely emergence of international AI governance framework modeled on atomic energy agencies. Potential bilateral US-China AI agreements could reduce trade tensions but may fragment global AI standards. Expect increased regulatory scrutiny of AI applications, data handling, and algorithmic transparency across sectors.