The potential displacement of human translators by artificial intelligence (AI) has sparked ongoing debate in the translation sector.
While AI applications continue to advance, the industry is increasingly adopting a hybrid model that integrates AI tools with human expertise to enhance efficiency without compromising accuracy.At the annual conference of the Translators Association of China (TAC), Du Zhanyuan, head of China International Communications Group (CICG) and TAC president, underscored the need for the industry to embrace AI-led innovations."Translation is among the fields where AI applications currently excel," he noted.
"Leveraging new technologies can reshape workflows and elevate productivity, unlocking unprecedented potential for the profession."Echoing this sentiment, Alison Rodriguez, president of the International Federation of Translators (FIT), noted the enduring importance of human oversight in her video speech."Art, literature, social customs and traditions are as important for the future as the algorithms, deep learning and large language models will be, because both are the future," she said.
Translators, interpreters and terminologists, she added, are indispensable in ensuring that AI-generated content aligns with ethical standards and maintains credibility.The translation sector in China is booming alongside technological progress.
A report unveiled at the conference revealed that as of late 2024, the nation's translation workforce had surpassed 6.8 million, fueled by surging demand for multilingual services. Beyond traditional language support, translation firms now offer specialized services such as international communication strategy and cross-cultural marketing.To meet evolving market needs, universities are retooling curricula to focus on niche areas like industrial engineering, life sciences, and AI-driven technical translation. Meanwhile, the globalization of Chinese culture, fueled by the rising popularity of Chinese films, video games and other creative works, has further elevated translation's role as a bridge for cross-cultural understanding.In response, the TAC has launched the "Four Translation Projects," a comprehensive initiative encompassing expert networks, cultural outreach programs, research hubs and training initiatives.
The association has also partnered with tech firms to establish AI translation R-D bases, fostering collaboration between human expertise and cutting-edge technology.(Cover via VCG)