Participants share opinions at the subforum of the Tianjin 2026 Global Business Leaders Roundtable. [Photo provided to en.tj.gov.cn]

A subforum focused on "Artificial Intelligence + Consumption: Continuously Creating New Products, New Scenarios, and New Hotspots in Consumption" was held during the Tianjin 2026 Global Business Leaders Roundtable in Tianjin on March 25.

Representatives from companies such as Taobao & Tmall Group and Huawei, along with experts from institutions such as Nankai University, discussed the integration of AI and the consumer industry, contributing to Tianjin's development as an international consumer center.

Key topics included the proliferation of smart consumer products, AI-driven consumption trends, the integration of online and offline consumption scenarios, and AI's role in boosting domestic demand.

Li Jiwei, executive president of the Meituan Research Institute, highlighted that while AI is transforming consumption, it remains in its early stages, with future potential to reshape consumer roles and create new consumption forms.

Xu Fei, vice-president of Public Affairs at Taobao & Tmall Group, emphasized AI's value in enhancing consumption efficiency, fostering inclusive growth, and tapping consumption potential.

Professor Zhou Mi from Nankai University made proposals for Tianjin's digital transformation in the consumer sector.

Participants shared insights into Chinese and European consumption practices, noting China's digital advantages and Europe's emphasis on physical experiences, and then reached a consensus to strengthen collaboration in applying AI across Tianjin’s retail, tourism, and healthcare sectors.