ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

China leads AI race but trails in trust, global poll finds

ai-technology · 2026-06-16

A recent survey conducted by the London-based consultancy Public First, which involved over 18,000 participants from 15 different countries, indicates that over 90% of those surveyed believe that AI will significantly change the world. In 11 of these nations, including Canada, Britain, and France, respondents recognized China's dominance in AI, with at least 40% considering it more advanced than the US in terms of innovation and capability. Germany showed the least faith in US leadership, with only 23% in agreement. Among Americans, 24% felt China was leading, while 51% disagreed. However, in terms of trust, the US came in second (+16) after Japan (+22), while China ranked 10th with a negative score (-8). Notably, the survey did not include participants from China.

Key facts

  • Poll by Public First covered over 18,000 people across 15 countries.
  • More than 90% of respondents believe AI will transform the world.
  • Respondents from 11 nations acknowledged China's AI leadership.
  • In Canada, Britain, and France, at least 40% said China outpaced the US.
  • Germany: only 23% said the US was ahead in AI.
  • Among Americans, 24% said China was ahead, 51% said the US was ahead.
  • Net trust: US +16, Japan +22, China -8 (10th place).
  • Public First has no connection with Anthropic-backed Public First Action.

Entities

Institutions

  • Public First
  • Public First Action
  • Anthropic

Locations

  • London
  • United Kingdom
  • Canada
  • Britain
  • France
  • Germany
  • United States
  • China
  • Japan

Sources