Sam Altman Says China’s AI Progress Is “Amazingly Fast”
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has described the technological progress of Chinese companies as “amazingly fast” and “remarkable” across the entire tech stack, according to recent comments made to CNBC.
Altman noted that in several areas, Chinese technology firms are rapidly approaching the global technological frontier. However, he added that in other segments they still trail behind international competitors.
His remarks come at a time when China and the United States are intensifying competition to develop artificial general intelligence (AGI), the next generation of AI systems designed to match or exceed human capabilities.
China Expands AI and Semiconductor Ambitions
China is actively strengthening its domestic semiconductor industry. The country aims to scale up local chipmakers that could eventually rival global leaders such as Nvidia.
At the same time, Chinese AI companies have seen strong stock market gains, as investors increase exposure to firms involved in artificial intelligence development.
The rapid growth of China’s AI ecosystem reflects the strategic importance the country places on advanced technology and long-term innovation.
OpenAI Explores Revenue Growth and Advertising
While competition accelerates globally, OpenAI is also focused on building sustainable revenue streams.
According to Dealroom data cited by CNBC, investors have committed roughly $70 billion to OpenAI. Reports suggest the company is close to finalizing a new fundraising round valued at approximately $100 billion.
One potential revenue source under consideration is advertising within ChatGPT. Altman explained that the company is still evaluating the most effective ad format, as development remains in early stages.
He suggested that Instagram-style discovery ads — where users encounter new products they may genuinely like — could be a promising model for integration into ChatGPT.
Focus on Rapid Growth and Future Profitability
Altman emphasized that OpenAI is currently experiencing extremely rapid growth. The company’s priority is to continue expanding while maintaining disciplined unit economics.
He added that profitability will be pursued strategically, once leadership determines the timing is appropriate.
As global AI competition intensifies, both China and the United States are positioning themselves at the forefront of technological innovation, with artificial intelligence becoming a defining factor in economic and strategic power.
