China is shaping the future of open-source technology – including AI

Nations that lead the development of open-source technology will have a strategic edge for decades to come.

By: Christopher K. Tong, University of Maryland, Baltimore County, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: August 12, 2026

Words: 1,139

Last Updated: 6 days, 6 hours ago


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By Christopher K. Tong, University of Maryland, Baltimore County

As you read this article on your computer or smartphone, you are almost certainly using open-source technology in some way. It forms the foundation of the global digital economy, from operating systems and web servers to databases and encryption protocols.

While the United States and Europe have led the development of open-source technology, China is championing its own alternatives. The Chinese government has made open-source …

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