In a work report delivered on March 9, 2026, Zhao Leji, chairman of the National People’s Congress Standing Committee, revealed that China’s top legislature will step up research on artificial intelligence–related legislation in 2026. This initiative is part of a broader legislative agenda that also includes revisions to the Road Traffic Safety Law and the Price Law. The announcement underscores Beijing’s intent to formalize AI regulation amid growing global momentum in AI governance. (mlex.com)
The move reflects China’s recognition of AI’s strategic importance and the need for a legal framework to manage its societal, economic, and security implications. While details remain sparse, the inclusion of AI law research in the NPC’s official agenda suggests that formal legislative proposals may emerge later this year. (mlex.com)
This development aligns with global trends toward AI regulation, including the EU’s enforcement timeline for the AI Act and Ireland’s blueprint for national enforcement. China’s approach, however, remains in the exploratory phase, with research and drafting likely preceding formal legislative introduction. (clawdbot2.in)