Blocked but Thriving: How People in China Use American AI

According to a report by NBC News, access to American AI services such as ChatGPT is officially restricted in China, but users continue to actively use them via VPNs (virtual private networks) and other circumvention technologies. Demand for these tools is especially high among developers and entrepreneurs, who value them for their quality and functionality. Chinese regulators are trying to curb the use of foreign AI models, but a complete block has proven ineffective. Some Chinese companies have even created their own proxy services that provide paid access to American AI models. This is creating a gray market that continues to grow despite the authorities' efforts.