Qingyang: Qingyang is advancing its digital transformation by integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and "computing power" into rural e-commerce, enabling farmers and homemakers to become livestream sellers, or "Code Farmers".

According to BERNAMA News Agency, at the Qingyang Electronic Commerce Association, training programs on AI livestreaming and intelligent e-commerce are equipping participants with practical skills-from product selection and content planning to virtual human streaming-reshaping how local communities engage in online commerce.

The initiative is supported by the Qingyang National Computing Hub under China's Eastern Data and Western Computing Project, which provides low-cost, low-latency computing resources, according to a statement. This enables the use of AI tools such as virtual streamers, creating a development model that combines local computing power, AI applications, and talent training to boost operational efficiency.

The results have been significant. Qingyang recorded total e-commerce sales of 6.91 billion Chinese yuan in 2025, with online retail contributing 3.27 billion Chinese yuan, up 12.7 percent year-on-year. (100 Chinese yuan = RM 58.01)

Since 2023, more than 2,000 people have received hands-on e-commerce training, strengthening the region's digital talent base. As a result, local residents are shifting from traditional agriculture to digital entrepreneurship, using AI-powered platforms to market regional products nationwide. This transformation highlights how digital infrastructure and emerging technologies are driving new economic opportunities in rural China.