Reported by 2Firsts from Shenzhen — On April 15, 2025, 2Firsts, a global media and think tank platform dedicated to the next-generation product (NGP) industry, successfully held its first “NGP+AI” workshop in Shenzhen, themed “AI 101 for NGP Professionals.” The workshop focused on the innovative applications of artificial intelligence in the NGP sector and attracted key participants from leading domestic manufacturers, brand owners, and service providers in R&D, technology, and compliance.
As AI continues to reshape global industry structures, the NGP sector stands at the dawn of a new transformation. Through this workshop, 2Firsts initiated an in-depth discussion on how AI can empower product development, regulatory compliance, supply chain optimization, and market responsiveness—offering a roadmap toward intelligent and data-driven industry evolution.
The session was delivered by AI applications expert Jiaxian Ren from SMART DOG, who introduced the fundamentals of large language models and their practical implementation in areas such as formula digitization, automated flavor development, label recognition, and regulatory analysis. The workshop emphasized the shift “from experience-driven to data-driven,” helping professionals grasp the potential and boundaries of integrating AI with industrial processes.
2Firsts emphasized that AI is not merely an additional tool in the NGP industry, but a force for systematic and foundational change. In a global environment where regulation is tightening and innovation is accelerating, AI is poised to become a critical driver in enhancing corporate resilience, improving R&D efficiency, and strengthening compliance systems.
The workshop also featured a live demonstration of an AI-powered flavor development device, presented by an innovation team from Shenzhen. The system showcased how AI can contribute to flavor identification and formula optimization, completing a closed loop from data to product. The demonstration sparked strong interest and lively discussion among attendees.
“This was not just a workshop—it was a glimpse into the future of our industry,” said Alan Zhao, Co-Founder and CEO of 2Firsts. “Through continued exploration and practice, we aim to provide a window and a pathway for AI-driven transformation in the global NGP sector and contribute to the high-quality development of tobacco harm reduction worldwide.”
To further promote AI-NGP integration, 2Firsts has officially launched a Global NGP+AI Application Case Call. Selected cases will receive support ranging from media exposure and business matchmaking to IP consultation and investor connections. For early-stage startups, 2Firsts will offer free resources to support innovation and implementation.
NGP professionals, researchers, and entrepreneurs worldwide are welcome to submit their cases or concepts related to AI applications in the NGP sector. Please contact us at: info@2firsts.com
