AI Innovations Drive Sales and Cooperation at China-ASEAN Expo

The 23rd China-ASEAN Expo, held from September 17 to 21, 2026, in Nanning, China, has prominently showcased the rapid evolution of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, marking a significant shift from theoretical applications to tangible market solutions. This shift is critical as it signals a growing integration of AI across various sectors, enhancing trade and cooperation between China and ASEAN countries. With over 3,400 companies participating, the Expo highlighted AI's potential to transform industries and improve cross-border collaboration.

AI products, such as AI-powered eyewear capable of real-time translation in over 40 languages, have captured the attention of attendees. The eyewear, developed by a Chinese firm, exemplifies how AI can facilitate communication and enhance user experience in diverse environments. According to Wang Jicai, secretary-general of the China-ASEAN Expo Secretariat, the focus on AI this year reflects a transition from mere demonstration to driving actual sales, indicating a maturation of the technology in commercial applications.

The Expo featured an "AI marketplace" showcasing approximately 500 products from over 70 companies, allowing visitors to interact with and purchase AI technologies on-site. This hands-on approach not only stimulates immediate sales but also fosters a deeper understanding of AI's capabilities among potential users. The event also included a matchmaking session aimed at identifying practical AI applications across various sectors, including healthcare, agriculture, and logistics, reinforcing the notion that AI is becoming an essential enabler of economic growth.

China and ASEAN nations, which achieved a bilateral trade volume exceeding $1 trillion in 2025, are leveraging AI to enhance cooperation in multiple sectors. The establishment of a China-ASEAN AI application cooperation center, which has cataloged over 1,000 potential AI scenarios, underscores the strategic importance of AI in regional economic integration. This cooperation is further exemplified by projects in Laos and Cambodia that utilize advanced technologies like satellite imagery and drones to optimize agricultural practices.

The emphasis on AI at the Expo reflects broader economic strategies under the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area 3.0 Upgrade Protocol, signed in October 2025. This framework encourages high-quality economic cooperation and positions AI as a frontier for collaborative opportunities. The release of case studies during the Expo, detailing 31 AI cooperation projects across all 11 ASEAN member states, highlights the tangible benefits of such partnerships in sectors like infrastructure and smart logistics.

The optimism expressed by ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn regarding AI cooperation indicates a shared vision for the future. He emphasized the importance of establishing adequate regulations to foster innovation while avoiding constraints that could stifle creativity. This sentiment is crucial as businesses navigate the complexities of integrating AI into their operations while remaining compliant with emerging regulatory frameworks.

As AI technologies continue to advance, the implications for businesses are profound. Companies that adapt to these innovations stand to gain a competitive edge in efficiency and market responsiveness. The growing emphasis on AI in trade and investment forums signals a shift in how businesses will operate, with an increasing reliance on data-driven decision-making and automation. This trend suggests that organizations across sectors must prioritize AI integration not only to enhance their operational capabilities but also to remain relevant in an increasingly interconnected marketplace.

The developments at the China-ASEAN Expo illustrate a pivotal moment for AI in the region, suggesting that businesses must proactively engage with these technologies to harness their full potential. The future landscape will likely be shaped by those who can effectively leverage AI to drive innovation, improve customer experiences, and create sustainable competitive advantages.