Definition
WAICO is a new intergovernmental organization — like a UN agency but for AI — that 29 countries, led by China, agreed to set up in Shanghai to coordinate global AI governance. It creates a second major international forum for AI rules alongside existing Western-led efforts (like the OECD or G7 processes).
Why it matters
Boards operating across multiple jurisdictions may soon face two competing sets of international AI norms and certification expectations, complicating global compliance strategy.