China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) has formed a new expert group comprising 60 experts from the private sector, government officials, and academic researchers to establish industry standards for the metaverse sector. This move comes as the sector faces ethical and security challenges that need to be addressed.
The working group includes representatives from renowned companies such as Huawei Technologies, Tencent Holdings, NetEase, Baidu, Ant Group, and Lenovo Group. It also includes officials from MIIT and researchers from prestigious institutions like Peking University and Fudan University.
The main objective of the expert group is to build, maintain, and promote industry standards for the metaverse. It will also focus on training talent and encouraging local companies and institutions to actively participate in international standard-setting activities.
The metaverse is a virtual three-dimensional world and has gained significant attention in recent years. Facebook even changed its name to Meta Platforms in 2021, signaling its dedication to embracing the next chapter of the internet.
China aims to become a leader in the metaverse field and has released a joint plan with five authorities to nurture at least three metaverse companies with global influence by 2025. Local governments, such as Beijing’s Tongzhou district and Shanghai, have also prioritized the development of the metaverse sector.
The establishment of the expert group by the MIIT is a significant step towards regulating and guiding the healthy and orderly development of the metaverse industry in China. By setting industry standards and addressing ethical and security challenges, China intends to create a robust and sustainable metaverse ecosystem.
With the participation of experts from both the private sector and academia, the group can benefit from diverse perspectives and ensure a balanced approach to standard-setting. This collaborative effort will undoubtedly contribute to the advancement of the metaverse sector in China and its integration into the global market.
The formation of this expert group aligns with China’s broader strategy to lead in emerging technologies and solidify its position as a global technological powerhouse. The country’s continuous efforts in fostering innovation and creating conducive environments for industry development highlight its commitment to shaping the future of technology.
As the metaverse sector continues to evolve and gain prominence, establishing industry standards will be crucial for its long-term success. China’s proactive approach in forming this expert group demonstrates its determination to play a leading role in shaping the metaverse landscape and leveraging its potential benefits across various sectors.
