China’s daily token usage surges 40% over three months
China’s average daily consumption of tokens for artificial intelligence models reached over 140 trillion in March, marking a 40% increase compared to the end of 2025. This reflects significant advancements in AI technology adoption within the country, as reported by Liu Lehong, head of China’s National Data Administration.
Source Yicaiglobal
Liu noted that at the beginning of 2024, the figure was only 100 billion tokens, representing a more than thousand-fold increase since then, highlighting China’s rapid acceleration in AI integration.
During the event, Liu introduced the Chinese term 词元 (cíyuán) as a substitute for the English “token,” resolving domestic debates over the correct translation and interpretation of the term.
Furthermore, Liu emphasized the economic significance of tokens, describing them as part of a new monetary system that can be exchanged, around which a new economy is quickly developing.
Overall, the surge in token consumption in China underscores the growing importance of AI technologies and the emergence of novel economic models built on digital assets.
This trend is expected to continue, fostering further growth in AI technology applications and strengthening China’s digital economy.
