China has blocked Meta from acquiring AI startup Manus, according to the National Development and Reform Commission.
In a statement issued on Monday, the commission said it would “prohibit the foreign investment in the acquisition of the Manus project” and directed all parties involved to withdraw from the deal.
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The move follows earlier reports that Chinese authorities had restricted two of Manus’ co-founders from leaving the country, signalling heightened scrutiny over foreign involvement in strategic technology firms.
The decision underscores Beijing’s tightening grip on critical sectors such as artificial intelligence, particularly where national security and data control concerns are involved.