Experts say US and China lead AI, but others are shaping the race

In short: The United States and China are widely seen as the top two AI powers, but experts say the race is not only between them.

What's going on

Recent reporting and commentary often describe artificial intelligence, or AI (software that can write, see, and make predictions), as a contest led by the US and China. Some analysts even call them the only countries in the top tier.

There is evidence behind that view. One cited reading of Stanford’s 2026 AI Index says US companies invested $285.9 billion in AI in 2025, compared with $12.4 billion in China. The US is also described as having an advantage in advanced computer chips, which are the special parts that power modern AI, like high performance engines.

At the same time, China has narrowed the gap in several areas. Reports say it is strong at putting AI into real world use, and Chinese AI models have improved on common performance tests, which is why some commentators now call it a “two horse race.”

Still, multiple analysts argue that calling everyone else “on the sidelines” goes too far. Groups like the Atlantic Council and BCG have said the AI landscape is becoming more multipolar, meaning influence is spread across more than two players. They point to other countries and companies helping set rules, standards, and practical ways AI gets adopted, even as the US and China build more incompatible tech “stacks” (bundles of parts that need to work together, like a matching set of phone, charger, and apps).

What to watch

Pay attention to which countries and international groups write the rules for AI use, safety, and trade. Those decisions can shape what products reach consumers, how data is handled, and which systems work smoothly across borders.

Source: NYTimes