China's National Data Administration convened a high-level symposium last week, focusing on accelerating the growth of embodied intelligence through enhanced data empowerment and increased corporate investment.
Liu Liehong, party secretary and director of the National Data Administration, presided over the meeting on September 10, 2026. The session brought together representatives from prominent research institutions and technology enterprises, including the Institute of Automation of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the Beijing Institute for General Artificial Intelligence, JD.com, and the Beijing Humanoid Robot Innovation Center. Deputy Director Xia Bing also attended the discussions.
Embodied intelligence refers to an advanced artificial intelligence paradigm where intelligent algorithms are housed within and operate through a physical form, most notably robotics. Unlike traditional software models that process digital inputs in isolation, embodied intelligence gives machines the physical capacity to perceive, reason, and interact directly with the physical world. In modern technology development, this concept is deeply intertwined with robotics and humanoid hardware, serving as the cognitive engine that allows mechanical systems to navigate environments, manipulate objects, and execute complex real world tasks.
Participants at the symposium noted that the embodied intelligence industry is experiencing rapid expansion characterized by distinct data-driven features. As robotic systems evolve, the sector faces a soaring demand for high-quality, diverse, and large-scale operational data to train models effectively.
In response to industry needs, the National Data Administration pledged to strengthen strategic planning and industrial guidance. The agency stated it will roll out standardized data frameworks for embodied intelligence at an appropriate time, direct local data bureaus to execute orderly deployment, and actively support enterprises in increasing data investments to promote healthy industry growth.
