US Media: Chinese Government Urges Firms to Develop AI but Avoid Layoffs

According to the Wall Street Journal, the Chinese government warned tech companies late last year not to lay off staff while implementing AI. Employers may even need to prove that layoffs are not related to AI replacement. With high youth unemployment, the government is struggling to balance technological progress with social stability. Some companies have reported that full AI application could reduce existing roles by 30% or more. A Beijing court recently ruled in favor of an employee replaced by AI, and the government is emphasizing corporate social responsibility.