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U.S., China accelerate AI investment race as U.S. relies on Big Tech, China on state funds

Rising funding for the U.S. and Chinese artificial intelligence industries is intensifying investment competition between the two countries. Global AI startup investment reached $255.5 billion in the first quarter of 2026, while Chinese AI ventures separately raised more than 110 billion yuan. China is accelerating state-led funding for AI, semiconductors and advanced manufacturing, and has launched a 1 trillion yuan national guidance fund. Both countries have also tightened measures to protect domestic industries.