Interview: China's 5G-AI integration across industries "setting benchmark for world": GMSA CEO

by Xinhua writer Guo Shuang

LONDON, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- John Hoffman, chief executive officer of the Global System for Mobile Communications Association (GSMA), said on Wednesday that China's integration of 5G and AI across vertical industries "is setting a benchmark for the world."

In an interview with Xinhua, Hoffman said the 2025 World Internet Conference Wuzhen Summit, which will open on Thursday, provides an opportunity "to reflect on the past decade - from the launch of 5G to the rise of AI and billions more people joining the digital economy - while looking ahead to shaping the next 10 years of a smarter, safer and more inclusive digital future."

A NEW ERA DEFINED BY CONVERGENCE

Hoffman said the global mobile industry is entering a new era marked by the convergence of 5G and AI, which together are transforming economies and societies.

According to GSMA data, one in four global connections now runs on 5G, while 4.7 billion people use mobile internet, forming a strong foundation for digital innovation.

"The opportunities lie in leveraging these networks to power AI-driven innovation - from predictive maintenance and automated operations to fraud prevention and smart cities," Hoffman said.

He noted that China continues to lead globally in network innovation, with 5G accounting for more than 55 percent of all mobile connections in the country.

SETTING BENCHMARKS FOR VERTICAL INDUSTRIES

Hoffman praised China's achievements in applying 5G and AI across industries such as manufacturing, logistics, and port operations. "China's integration of 5G and AI across vertical industries is setting a benchmark for the world," he said.

He cited examples including China Mobile's predictive maintenance systems in factories, China Telecom's automated crane operations at Tianjin Port, and China Unicom's AI-powered fraud detection system with 95 percent accuracy.

"These cases demonstrate the power of cross-industry collaboration," he said. "They show how 5G and AI can digitalize traditional industries, enhance productivity, and create scalable models that can be replicated globally - from smart factories and intelligent transport to logistics and beyond."

BRIDGING THE DIGITAL DIVIDE

Despite rapid progress, Hoffman warned of persistent challenges, highlighting the "usage gap," where 3.1 billion people remain disconnected from mobile internet despite network coverage.

"Barriers such as device affordability, digital literacy, and relevant local content must be addressed to ensure everyone benefits from digital progress," he said.

To prevent a new "AI divide," Hoffman emphasized the need to combine multilingual AI development with universal connectivity.

"If AI does not understand your language or culture, it cannot truly serve your needs," he said, stressing that equitable access to connectivity and local-language AI development will be essential to ensure technology benefits all communities.

"Through advancements in AI large models and 5G, China has made positive contributions to driving global digital innovation and intelligent connectivity," Hoffman added.

Looking ahead, he said GSMA will continue to strengthen collaboration in China and beyond. The organization has announced 17 strategic partnerships for next year's MWC Shanghai 2026 - its 13th edition - involving major Chinese operators and leading technology companies. ■