China reviews Meta’s $2bn AI deal over export control concerns

China is conducting a review of Meta's $2 billion acquisition of Manus, an AI startup, due to concerns over potential violations of technology export control regulations. This review raises uncertainties regarding one of the year's most significant AI deals. Officials from China's Ministry of Commerce are assessing whether the relocation of Manus's staff and technology to Singapore required an export license. Although the review is preliminary and not yet formal, this could give Beijing leverage over the transaction. Manus is noted for its development of the world's first general AI agent capable of autonomously making decisions. The acquisition completed last month values Manus between $2 billion and $3 billion. The situation highlights increasing geopolitical risks surrounding cross-border AI deals, particularly involving U.S. technology firms and Chinese-origin technology.