Unhappy with Meta-Manus deal, Chinese govt to startups: Reject funding from US firms

China's industry regulator has ordered Meta to cancel its $2 billion acquisition of Singapore-based AI firm Manus, citing national security concerns. This move follows the US announcing a crackdown on foreign tech companies exploiting AI models. China is also reportedly restricting US capital in its leading tech firms without government approval, signaling an escalating AI war.

By TOI TECH DESK

Commentary: China’s blocking of Manus-Meta deal might not send the message it intended

China’s move to undo Meta’s acquisition of Manus was not surprising, but the lack of public criticism was, says Chong Ja Ian from the National University of Singapore.