PwC China has launched an AI Innovation Centre in Shanghai to help businesses turn artificial intelligence research and emerging technologies into scalable commercial applications.
The center formally launched on July 22, 2026, at an event attended by more than 100 representatives from government, technology companies and academia.
PwC China is positioning the center as a connection point between advanced research, industry expertise, local market knowledge and global AI capabilities.
The initiative will focus on helping organizations develop AI strategies, integrate technology into important business functions and pursue measurable financial and operational outcomes.
PwC China Chair and CEO Hemione Hudson said the center will use China’s position as an innovation hub to connect locally developed technologies with demand across international markets.
PwC Global Chief AI Officer Joe Atkinson emphasized the firm’s focus on helping customers adopt AI effectively and responsibly through a combination of local and global capabilities.
Horatio Wong, Head of Consulting at PwC China, highlighted the role of PwC’s technology ecosystem and consulting experience in converting AI developments into longer-term competitive advantages.
Dr. Yaxiao Liu, Head of the AI Innovation Centre, described the center as a converter between AI technology and core commercial operations.
The center will support companies seeking to move beyond pilot projects and introduce AI into workflows where it can improve efficiency, decision-making and customer outcomes.
PwC’s tax practice also expects to use the facility to jointly develop AI roadmaps with clients, improve complex tax operations and help companies respond to changing regulations.
AI use in tax can include analyzing large datasets, identifying compliance risks, preparing documents and helping professionals interpret regulatory requirements.
PwC China said the center will combine consulting, technology development and industry knowledge to build customized AI systems rather than relying only on general-purpose models.
The company expects the initiative to support its internal teams as well as customers navigating digital transformation and more complex regulatory environments.
