China announced Sunday that it will accelerate the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and big data in elderly and social care as part of its strategy to harness new technologies for economic growth despite an aging population.

The move comes as officials face challenges related to the country’s low birth rate and declining workforce.

“We will accelerate the development and application of new technologies and products such as big data and artificial intelligence in the fields of social assistance, elderly care services, and services for the disabled,” civil affairs minister Lu Zhiyuan said during a news conference at China’s annual "Two Sessions" political gathering.

Lu added that the initiative aims to make services “more convenient, more accessible, and more standardized.”

China's population declined for the third consecutive year in 2024, with over 310 million people aged 60 and above. As the workforce shrinks, the government is increasingly turning to technology to fuel future economic growth.

Local governments have rapidly adopted DeepSeek’s AI model into their services since the company launched its latest chatbot version in January. The model has outperformed many Western AI competitors, despite U.S. restrictions on the sale of advanced AI chips to Chinese companies.

President Xi Jinping signaled official backing for the sector when he held a rare symposium for private companies last month, which included AI and tech executives. He urged them to “show their talents.”

DeepSeek founder Liang Wenfeng attended the event, alongside representatives from major tech firms like Tencent, Huawei, and Xiaomi.