China Reviews Meta’s $2B Manus AI Deal Over Possible Export Control Breach

TLDR

• Chinese regulators are reviewing Meta’s acquisition of Manus over possible export license requirements.
• The review follows Manus relocating its staff and AI technology from China to Singapore.
• Officials are assessing if transferring assets abroad violated China’s technology export control laws.
• Meta completed the $2–$3 billion acquisition of Manus before the regulatory review became public.
• Manus developed a general AI agent that drew attention for autonomous task execution with minimal input.

Chinese regulators have begun reviewing whether export control rules apply to Meta’s completed purchase of AI startup Manus. The review follows the relocation of Manus staff and technology outside mainland China.

Regulatory Review Focuses on Technology Movement Outside China

According to a report by the Reuters, officials at China’s commerce ministry are reviewing the relocation of Manus resources. The assessment centers on whether transferring staff and technology to Singapore triggered export licensing obligations. Two people familiar with the matter described the review as an internal regulatory process.

The review could give Chinese authorities leverage over the transaction if licensing requirements apply. In extreme cases, regulators can request structural changes or compliance remedies. However, officials have not indicated that enforcement action is imminent.

Reuters reported it could not independently verify the review. Neither Meta nor Manus responded to requests for comment. The silence leaves uncertainty around potential regulatory outcomes.

Deal Background and Manus AI Development Draw Attention

Meta acquired Manus last month in a transaction valuing the company between $2 billion and $3 billion. Sources familiar with the deal confirmed the valuation range to Reuters. Manus operates from Singapore following its relocation earlier this year.  Manus gained attention after releasing what it described as a general AI agent.

The system claimed autonomous decision-making capabilities with limited user input. Social media exposure on X accelerated interest in the company’s technology. The AI agent drew comparisons with other advanced systems but followed a different execution model. Chinese regulators have increased oversight of outbound technology transfers in recent years.

Authorities now evaluate whether sensitive algorithms or talent movements require export clearance. The review continues as officials determine jurisdiction and licensing scope. No timeline has been disclosed for a conclusion. Meta completed the acquisition before the review became public.

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