China proposes AI open source zone for BRICS nations at Delhi summit
China has proposed setting up an AI Open Source Zone for BRICS countries at the BRICS Summit 2026 in New Delhi, prompting talk of rivalry with the US
Images are not validated/verified
At the BRICS Summit 2026 underway in New Delhi, China has announced a major step on artificial intelligence. China is set to work towards building an AI Open Source Zone for BRICS countries. The aim is to boost mutual cooperation in AI technology, promote open source models, and give momentum to digital industry and research. If the initiative moves forward, it could give BRICS countries a chance to reduce their dependence on Western technology.
Chinese President Xi Jinping said BRICS countries need to work together more closely in the field of AI. In this connection, China has proposed setting up an open-source platform for AI, an "Open Source Zone", under its leadership.
Through this platform, researchers, companies and technology sector institutions from BRICS countries will be able to work together on AI development. China's focus is on increasing the sharing of AI models, digital infrastructure and technology knowledge among member countries.
China's proposal is not limited to AI alone, but is also linked to cooperation in digital industry, trade, manufacturing and science and technology. Xi Jinping also said it is necessary to emphasise keeping supply chains among BRICS countries stable and smooth.
With the expansion of BRICS, the group now has a large population and a large market. In such a scenario, if cooperation increases in AI, digital services and the technology sector, member countries could get large-scale economic opportunities.
China's AI proposal is not being seen only as technology cooperation. Given the ongoing rivalry between the US and China over AI and semiconductor technology, this BRICS initiative is being seen as significant. However, it has not been officially stated that this project is meant to directly challenge the US. The emphasis within BRICS is on using AI to boost development, the digital economy and technology cooperation.
India too has spoken of increasing cooperation on AI, technology and the interests of the Global South through BRICS. It remains to be seen how quickly China's proposal actually takes shape and how actively India and other member countries participate in it.
