The National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) blocked Meta Platforms’ acquisition of artificial intelligence startup Manus. Beijing issued the decision to prevent the transfer of advanced technology to foreign entities.
The move signals tightening Chinese scrutiny over the AI industry amid escalating geopolitical competition with the United States. Meta intended the acquisition to bolster AI capabilities across its various platforms.
Meta stated the transaction fully complied with applicable laws and anticipated an appropriate resolution. The decision creates significant uncertainty for Western technology companies pursuing investments in firms with ties to China.
This regulatory intervention could chill future merger and acquisition activity across the global technology sector.