How China fell for a lobster: What an AI assistant tells us about Beijing’s ambition
How China Fell for a Lobster: What an AI Assistant Reveals About Beijing’s Vision
When Wang first greeted the BBC with the question, “Are you a lobster?” it was clear that the AI tool OpenClaw had captured his imagination. Recently, he had become deeply engrossed in the technology, to the point where he questioned whether he was conversing with a human or an artificial intelligence. After confirming his human identity, he shared how OpenClaw had transformed his workflow. The Chinese government’s strong backing of AI has fueled a nationwide embrace of the technology, creating both fascination and apprehension. OpenClaw, developed by Austrian programmer Peter Steinberger, exemplifies this trend, as its open-source nature allows seamless integration with Chinese AI systems.
A Personal Encounter with the Lobster
Wang, who chose to remain anonymous due to his involvement in a TikTok-based digital gadget shop, described his experience with OpenClaw. “It feels both exhilarating and intimidating,” he said, explaining how the AI tool outperformed him in tasks like product listing. The process of uploading items to the TikTok Shop typically requires meticulous effort—managing images, crafting titles, setting prices, and coordinating with influencers. Yet his “lobster,” still in testing, handled up to 200 listings in just two minutes. “It writes better and instantly compares my prices with competitors—something I’d never have time for,” he added.
A Nation’s Obsession with AI
The surge in OpenClaw’s popularity has been uniquely driven by Chinese enthusiasm. From Shenzhen’s tech entrepreneurs to Beijing’s policymakers, the AI assistant has become a symbol of progress. Hundreds of users, ranging from students to retirees, gathered outside Tencent and Baidu offices to claim free customised versions. Some even claimed their “lobsters” helped with stock trading, analysing market trends and executing trades, though errors were reported. Others highlighted its role in streamlining tasks and boosting productivity. Li Dan, a well-known comedian, joked to millions on Douyin that he now conversed with his lobster in dreams, while Fu Sheng, CEO of Cheetah Mobile, proudly showcased his “raised lobster” on social media.
DeepSeek’s Influence and China’s AI Strategy
China’s AI ambitions have been building for years. The sudden emergence of DeepSeek last year surprised many, as it demonstrated a domestic focus on innovation. Developed by engineers from top Chinese universities, the platform reinforced the country’s appetite for self-reliance in technology. This momentum has led to OpenClaw’s rapid adoption, supported by government incentives. In Wuxi, for instance, local authorities offered up to five million yuan for manufacturing applications involving AI. “The government sets the direction,” noted Rui Ma, founder of the Tech Buzz China newsletter. “It’s practical for most people to follow their lead rather than navigate it alone.” This alignment between state guidance and grassroots innovation underscores China’s strategic push into the AI era.
