Beijing, 27 April 2026 – China has moved to block Meta Platforms Inc.’s US$2 billion acquisition of AI startup Manus, marking a major escalation in Beijing’s effort to prevent strategic artificial intelligence capabilities from flowing into the hands of American technology giants.
The decision, was reported to show and carried by regional financial publications, comes as China intensifies scrutiny over AI companies with Chinese roots that attempt to relocate, raise foreign capital or distance themselves from the mainland technology ecosystem. The National Development and Reform Commission reportedly ordered the cancellation of the deal on Monday, turning what was once viewed as a landmark cross-border AI acquisition into a flashpoint in the wider US-China technology rivalry.
Unlock the Full Article
This article is exclusive to The Ledger Asia Subsribers / PAID members.
Already have an account? Log in here
