San Francisco, October 30, 2025 — At this year’s TechCrunch Disrupt, CGTN hosted a panel titled “AI Innovations from the Global South”, highlighting how emerging economies are reshaping the global technology landscape through inclusive, collaborative, and sustainable artificial intelligence.

The discussion brought together young and promising startup founders and innovators from China, India, and Uzbekistan, who shared how the Global South is leveraging AI to address local challenges while generating ideas with global impact. Focusing on the vitality and potential of the region, the panel explored how inclusive technologies can bridge the digital divide and how international cooperation, policy support, and innovation can advance a more equitable AI future.

The session underscored that the Global South is fast becoming a key testing ground for inclusive AI innovation, contributing diversity, adaptability, and resilience to the global ecosystem. From creative tech startups to deep-tech ventures, these emerging companies are shaping the next wave of AI-driven progress.

Prateek Dixit, Founder and CTO of Pocket FM, shared how a small AI-driven storytelling startup in Bangalore has scaled globally. “What began as a small startup in Bangalore has now reached creators in the U.S. and Europe,” Dixit said. “It’s a signal that the Global South is becoming a hub of AI innovation, contributing ideas that resonate worldwide.”

Jamelia Yeungi, Chief Marketing Officer of IT Park Uzbekistan, highlighted the role of international partnerships in nurturing young AI ecosystems. “China has been a great partner in the digital sphere. Together we’ve built joint accelerators, education programs, and major infrastructure projects with Huawei and ZTE — a huge collaboration driving AI and digital growth,” she said.

Dr. Kitty Yeung, CEO and Co-Founder of Wear It, emphasized how AI-powered automation and sustainability are scaling globally. “We’re learning the best of both worlds — taking what works in large economies like China and using AI automation to scale it globally in a cleaner, more efficient way,” said Yeung.

For more, check out our exclusive content on CGTN Now and subscribe to our weekly newsletter, The China Report.