Beijing has tightened scrutiny of key AI firms in the wake of the deal, which has been largely completed
Published Mon, Apr 27, 2026 · 04:41 PM — Updated Mon, Apr 27, 2026 · 04:56 PM
CHINA has decided to block Meta Platforms’ US$2 billion acquisition of agentic AI startup Manus, making a surprise move to unwind a controversial deal that has drawn fire for the leakage of technology to the US.
The National Development and Reform Commission ordered the deal’s cancellation in a brief statement on Monday (Apr 27). Meta representatives were not immediately available for comment outside regular hours.
Beijing has tightened scrutiny of key AI firms in the wake of the deal, which has been largely completed.
Manus is among a wave of Chinese tech firms that have set up in Singapore to avoid potential disruption from US-China tensions.
The buyout triggered a Beijing probe into illegal foreign investment and tech exports shortly after its December 2025 announcement. Initially hailed as a template for startups with global aspirations, critics have since lamented the loss of valuable AI technology to a geopolitical rival.
This is a developing story. BLOOMBERG
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