China's Internet Media Forum Charts AI-Driven Future for Digital Content
The China Internet Media Forum has opened with a focus on reviewing a decade of online content growth and planning for the future. Organised by the Cyberspace Administration of China, People's Daily, and Henan's provincial CPC cyberspace commission, the event sets the stage for the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026–30). This year's discussions centre on innovation, transformation, and the role of AI in shaping digital media.
The forum's theme highlights the importance of mainstream media leadership and collaboration among different stakeholders. Its structure revolves around four key areas: reviewing past achievements, exploring future trends, driving industry transformation, and mapping out new digital landscapes.
AI applications took centre stage, particularly in creating positive content, supporting local culture, and producing micro-dramas. Major state media, including People's Daily and Xinhua, showcased their use of AI in news production during the event. A new online campaign, *China in the opening year of the 15th Five-Year Plan*, was launched alongside other key initiatives. These include *Moments of strengthening the military* and *The Red Star Over China*, both part of the forum's annual theme publicity projects. The event also introduced several themed conferences, such as the Positive Energy Creators Conference and the Digital Intelligence Empowering Positive Energy Production and Communication Conference. These sessions aim to strengthen the creation and spread of uplifting digital content. The forum's roots trace back to 2016, when General Secretary Xi Jinping chaired a symposium on cyberspace security and informatisation. His speech at the time underscored the strategic importance of digital development in China.
The forum's discussions and initiatives will influence China's online content strategy for the next five years. By integrating AI, promoting positive messaging, and fostering media collaboration, the event lays the groundwork for a more dynamic digital ecosystem. The outcomes will guide both state and private media platforms in the coming decade.
