China’s National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC), together with several ministries, has released new implementation guidelines aimed at accelerating the adoption of AI across the country’s bidding and tendering system. The policy seeks to modernize procurement processes, improve efficiency and strengthen market supervision through intelligent tools and data-driven oversight.
The document outlines a phased approach to integrating AI into key stages of bidding and tendering. By the end of 2026, core applications such as tender document inspection, intelligent bid evaluation and collusion detection are expected to be implemented in select provinces and cities. Nationwide expansion is targeted for completion by the end of 2027.
Officials said the initiative aligns with China’s broader “Artificial Intelligence+” strategy and is designed to promote fair competition, standardize market practices and improve allocation of public resources. The guidelines emphasize a scenario-driven approach that combines government coordination with participation from market-based AI service providers.
AI applications will cover the full transaction lifecycle. In bidding preparation, AI systems will help generate tender documents, analyze market conditions and ensure compliance with regulations. During the bidding process, digital agents may assist with bid opening procedures, expert selection and evaluation support, while automated tools will help detect abnormal bidding behavior or potential collusion.
The framework also extends to supervision and enforcement. AI models will be used to create profiles of bidding experts, analyze credit data, identify irregular patterns and support complaint handling. Authorities say these tools will improve regulatory efficiency and help create a “one-network governance” model linking administrative, disciplinary and judicial oversight.
At the same time, the guidance stresses that AI tools must remain advisory. Final decisions and legal responsibility will continue to rest with human participants, including bidders, experts and government officials.
Local governments are encouraged to strengthen data governance, build shared datasets, and regularly update AI models to improve accuracy. The policy also calls for strict security controls, including algorithm registration, audits and safeguards against risks such as algorithmic bias or unreliable outputs.
The guidelines were jointly issued by the NDRC and multiple ministries, signaling a coordinated national push to embed AI into China’s public resource trading system.
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