A forum that was themed on Al empowering the future of the low-altitude economy — part of the 2025 World Artificial Intelligence Conference or WAIC — took place in Shanghai on July 27.
Shanghai is positioning itself as a leader in this emerging field, using AI to reshape urban governance and lifestyles.
Discussions among industry experts and scholars focused on integrating AI with low-altitude activities like logistics, urban air transport and emergency rescues.
Yang Zhenbin, Party secretary of Shanghai Jiao Tong University, said that his university was committed to advancing the low-altitude economy through technological innovation and talent cultivation.
Cheng Peng, secretary of CPC Shanghai Municipal Working Committee of Economy and Informatization, highlighted Shanghai's role as a hub for low-altitude economic innovation — aiming to transform the city into a "Sky City" that integrates with the Yangtze River Delta region.
A highlight of the event was the launch of the Shanghai Low-Altitude Economy Hall, featuring exhibition areas, interactive zones and space for future expansion.
It will serve as a one-stop platform for businesses in the low-altitude economy sector to set up operations and connect with industries.
The event also saw the creation of the Shanghai AI+ Low-Altitude Economy Industry Innovation Consortium to foster technological advancements.
What's more, the Shanghai Low-Altitude Economy Industry Chain Financial Services Alliance was established to support the sector financially, involving major financial institutions like the Bank of China.
The forum concluded with a roundtable on "AI empowers the development of low-altitude technology equipment" — highlighting the collaborative efforts needed to advance the industry.
