China looks to AI to navigate massive overhaul of its waterway transport system

In a modernisation push, major ports and waterways will become more intelligent by 2027, Ministry of Transport says. Plan includes drones and unstaffed ships to patrol routes. — SCMP

China has pinned its hopes on digital technologies to modernise its waterway transport system, aiming to boost its competitiveness in shipping by improving efficiency and sustainability.

A plan unveiled by the Ministry of Transport on its website earlier this month targets implementation of smart technologies like 5G, big data and artificial intelligence across all major ports and waterways by 2027.