At Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport, Alibaba Cloud’s advertisement highlights the rapid growth of AI technologies. In its latest quarterly report, Alibaba Group Holding Ltd. revealed substantial growth in its AI-related products.
In Beijing, economics graduate Elowen Wu found herself grappling with the advanced state of AI despite her academic background. Throughout her studies, she utilized AI tools for tasks like organizing articles and writing code. However, starting her internship at an AI startup in Anhui province left her feeling unprepared.“It was a huge shock for me,” Wu shared. “Some of the AI functions are incredibly powerful, and that realization was intimidating.”
She expressed her concerns on social media, questioning whether AI would replace her.
Similar worries are present in the U.S., but China’s AI adoption rate is significantly faster, driven by national leadership. Recent legal decisions in Chinese cities support workers displaced by AI. In Guangzhou, a graphics designer named Wei was dismissed when AI took over his tasks. The court ruled this dismissal illegal, awarding Wei additional compensation.
Judge Chen Shiyuan emphasized that companies must not pass technological risks onto employees. They are required to offer alternative positions or training.
Guang Li from Taylor Wessing’s Munich office notes international interest in these cases. He mentions a Beijing worker dismissed due to AI, attracting attention from colleagues in Europe.
China’s labor laws offer robust employee protections. However, enforcement is inconsistent, as economist Eli Friedman from Cornell University observes. Chinese workers face vulnerabilities, and the job market’s competitiveness exacerbates these issues.
Despite China’s slow economy and high youth unemployment, AI increases pressure on workers. As major global players in AI, China and the U.S. are in fierce competition. Wu continues her education with a master’s degree while staying informed on AI developments.
Wu advises others to embrace learning to reduce fear of the unknown. She believes understanding AI’s limitations makes it less daunting. Jasmine Ling contributed to this report.
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