Experts and industry leaders highlighted the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area’s (GBA) potential to drive cultural development in the digital era, emphasizing the importance of balancing independent human thought with the application of artificial intelligence (AI). Their views were shared at the Forum on Enhancing the Cultural Strength of the Greater Bay Area in the Age of Digital Intelligence held on May 24 in Shenzhen, a subforum of the Forum on Building up China’s Cultural Strength 2026.
Xu Yangsheng, president of the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, described AI as more than just an advanced technology, characterizing it as a new cultural form that shapes thinking patterns, behavioral norms, and values. He pointed out that young people are at the forefront of this AI-driven cultural transformation, as they tend to adapt more swiftly than older generations. Xu encouraged youth to master AI tools while maintaining independent thinking, moral standards, and a connection to cultural roots, advocating for a reasoned and responsible embrace of digital advancements.
His perspective was supported by Zhou Guoping, a research fellow at the Institute of Philosophy of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, who stressed that AI lacks consciousness, emotions, and moral judgment. Zhou argued that AI operates based on data and algorithms and cannot replace essential human values or pursue spiritual truths. He cautioned against blind reliance on AI, urging people to regard it as an aid while upholding humanistic warmth and ethical reasoning.
Shen Yi, a professor at Fudan University’s School of International Relations and Public Affairs, highlighted the GBA’s potential to serve as a bridge between civilizations in the digital age. He noted that while Chinese culture benefits from China’s strong economy and AI sector, other civilizations and vulnerable groups face disadvantages and require greater support. Shen proposed developing the Greater Bay Area into an international hub for digital cultural exchange to promote peaceful coexistence and positive intercultural interaction.
The GBA cultural industry has shown substantial growth in recent years. Guangdong province’s cultural sector reported revenues of 3.03 trillion yuan ($446 billion) in 2024, marking a 9.9 percent increase from the previous year. This sector accounts for about one-sixth of China’s total cultural industry output and has led the nation for 22 consecutive years.
Shu Xin, president of the Hong Kong Philosophy Research Institute, emphasized Hong Kong’s unique position as a conduit between Chinese and Western cultures under the “one country, two systems” framework. He identified the city’s international connections and digital capabilities as vital for revitalizing intangible cultural heritage, expanding cross-border cultural exchanges, and strengthening youth identity in the region.
The forum also featured discussions on new developments in mass literature, art, and the inheritance and promotion of Chinese culture within the Greater Bay Area.