Beijing: The United States has announced new funding to promote American artificial intelligence and maritime technology during meetings of the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation forum, as competition with China continues to shape global technology policy.
At the gathering of Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation in China, US officials unveiled a 20 million dollar initiative aimed at helping member economies adopt American AI tools. The move is part of a broader effort by Washington to strengthen its influence in emerging technologies across the Asia Pacific region.
US representatives said the funding will support practical uses of artificial intelligence, including tools that can improve economic planning, digital systems and maritime monitoring. A major focus is on fisheries technology. The United States is encouraging countries to use advanced satellite tracking, data analysis and other digital tools to detect illegal fishing and better manage marine resources.
Washington has often raised concerns about illegal and unreported fishing in the Pacific, linking the issue to the expansion of China’s distant water fishing fleet. By offering technology support, US officials say they want to help regional partners protect their waters and ensure fair competition.
The announcement comes at a sensitive time in US China relations. Both countries are competing for leadership in artificial intelligence, semiconductor manufacturing and digital standards. While the United States promotes what it calls open and secure technology systems, China argues that it supports cooperation and fair access to innovation.
The tech rivalry has also extended to trade enforcement. On the same day, US authorities confirmed a major settlement with Applied Materials over violations related to exports of chipmaking equipment to China. The case reflects Washington’s strict controls on advanced semiconductor technology.
The diplomatic calendar adds further significance to the moment. US President Donald Trump is expected to visit China in April, and leaders are preparing for the APEC summit scheduled to take place in Shenzhen later this year. Observers say technology and trade issues are likely to dominate those discussions.
Despite tensions, many APEC members are calling for balanced cooperation. Smaller economies in the region are seeking access to both American and Chinese technology while avoiding being caught in the middle of a wider strategic rivalry.
Analysts say the latest US initiative shows that artificial intelligence and maritime security are becoming central tools of influence in the Asia Pacific, where economic growth and geopolitical competition are increasingly linked.