Core Insights - The rapid development of AI is significantly reshaping the core skill requirements in the accounting field, driving talent transformation [1] - Companies are increasingly focused on the practical value of AI projects, with a core emphasis on improving return on investment [1] Technology Adoption - AI, data analytics and visualization software, and cybersecurity software are the top three technologies adopted by mainland Chinese enterprises in the past 12 months [1] - 92% of respondents reported using AI tools like DeepSeek, a substantial increase from 72% in the previous year [1] AI Integration - 21% of respondents indicated that AI is widely integrated across various business functions, utilizing third-party, customized, and self-developed AI tools, up from 9% in the last survey [1] - 30% of enterprises moderately apply AI in several areas, primarily relying on third-party tools, while 40% occasionally use free or off-the-shelf AI tools [1] Future Outlook - 65% of respondents expect their companies to further increase AI technology applications in the next 12 months, a rise of 17 percentage points from the last survey [2] - The results indicate a strong growth momentum for AI in mainland China, reflecting ongoing confidence in its strategic value [2]

Core Insights - The latest survey by the Australian Accounting Association indicates a significant increase in AI application rates and maturity among mainland Chinese enterprises over the past year [1][2] Group 1: AI Application and Trends - 92% of respondents from mainland China reported using AI tools like DeepSeek, a substantial increase from 72% in the previous year [1] - 21% of respondents indicated that AI is widely integrated across various business functions, up from 9% in the last survey, marking the highest rate among all surveyed markets [1] - 65% of respondents expect their companies to further increase AI technology applications in the next 12 months, a rise of 17 percentage points from the last survey [2] Group 2: Challenges in AI Implementation - 40% of mainland enterprises identified cost and return uncertainty as a primary challenge, with 49% of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) particularly concerned about low investment returns [2] - The lack of transparency and explainability in AI outputs, along with data security risks, poses significant challenges for both large and small enterprises [2] - Compliance and risk management pressures are heightened due to varying global AI governance rules, leading to increased data leakage risks [2] Group 3: Workforce and Talent Development - 32% of respondents noted a reduction in hiring entry-level accounting staff, while 18% reported actively recruiting talent with AI expertise for their finance departments [3] - Companies are advised to balance technology investments with long-term business strategies, especially for SMEs lacking digital capabilities [3] - Employers are encouraged to enhance existing employees' technological skills and create clear policies for ethical AI tool usage [4]

Core Insights - The application and maturity of artificial intelligence (AI) in mainland China have significantly increased over the past year, reshaping the core skill requirements in the accounting field and driving talent transformation [1][4] - Companies are increasingly focused on the return on investment (ROI) from AI projects, reflecting a more pragmatic approach to technology application [1][4] Group 1: AI Adoption and Trends - AI, data analytics, and cybersecurity software are the top three technologies adopted by mainland Chinese enterprises in the past year [4] - 92% of respondents from mainland China reported using AI tools like DeepSeek, a significant increase from 72% in the previous year [4] - 21% of respondents indicated that AI is widely integrated into various business processes, up from 9% in the last survey, making it the highest among all surveyed markets [4] - 65% of respondents expect their companies to further increase AI technology applications in the next 12 months, a rise of 17 percentage points from the previous survey [4] Group 2: Human Resource Strategies - 32% of respondents noted that their companies reduced hiring for junior accounting positions due to the proliferation of AI applications, while 18% are actively recruiting talent with AI expertise [5] - The demand for hybrid talent with both traditional accounting knowledge and technological skills is increasing, as companies seek to empower digital transformation [5] - Employers are encouraged to enhance or retrain existing employees' technological skills to adapt to the evolving workplace [5] Group 3: Investment and ROI Challenges - Approximately 40% of respondents indicated that the ROI from technology investments is low, particularly among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) [7] - Companies are advised to clearly define their core business challenges before investing in new technologies and to consult with technology experts for tailored solutions [7] - SMEs should prioritize technology solutions that enhance core business functions and adopt phased investment strategies to ensure alignment with strategic goals [7] Group 4: Cybersecurity Concerns - 74% of respondents reported ongoing use of cybersecurity software, with 35% integrating cybersecurity into their overall business strategy [7][8] - The rise of generative AI and other public large language models has increased data breach risks, necessitating heightened employee awareness and responsible AI usage [8] - Companies are encouraged to regularly assess and update their cybersecurity measures to mitigate evolving threats, with options like security operation centers being viable solutions [8]