China says Meta’s acquisition of AI platform Manus must comply with Chinese laws

By Riyaz ul Khaliq

ISTANBUL (AA) – China on Thursday issued remarks about an investigation into Meta's acquisition of artificial intelligence platform Manus, saying "enterprises engaging in overseas investment" must comply with the domestic law, state media reported.

A statement from the Chinese Commerce Ministry came after US technology company Meta announced last week that it had acquired Artificial Intelligence (AI) startup Manus.

Founded in China before relocating to Singapore, Manus unveiled its first general AI agent capable of performing complex tasks, including data analysis, coding and market research early 2025.

“Enterprises engaging in overseas investment, technology export, cross-border data transfer, cross-border mergers and acquisitions, and other activities, must comply with Chinese laws and regulations and fulfill statutory procedures,” He Yadong, spokesman for the Chinese commerce ministry, told reporters in Beijing.

He said the ministry will work with all relevant departments to conduct an “assessment and investigation into the consistency" of Meta's acquisition with "relevant laws and regulations concerning export controls, technology import and export, and overseas investment.”

The ministry’s statement came a day after UK-based daily Financial Times reported that Beijing is reviewing the sale of Manus to Meta.

According to the report, officials are examining whether the relocation of Manus’ staff and technology to Singapore, as well as the subsequent sale to Meta, required an export license under Chinese law.

The review remains at an early stage and may not lead to a formal investigation, the report said.