China orders Meta to cancel $2 billion acquisition of AI startup Manus

Apr 27, 2026

AI Summary

China's National Development and Reform Commission has mandated that Meta unwind its acquisition of Manus, a Singapore-based AI startup with Chinese origins. This decision reflects China's tightening regulations on foreign investments in technology sectors, particularly AI, amid rising scrutiny from both Chinese and U.S. authorities.

China's state planner has called for Meta to reverse its $2 billion acquisition of Manus, an AI startup based in Singapore but founded in China.
The National Development and Reform Commission stated that the prohibition aligns with existing laws and regulations, instructing involved parties to withdraw from the transaction.
The acquisition faced scrutiny from both Chinese regulators and U.S. lawmakers, who have restricted American investments in Chinese AI companies.
The Chinese government is also discouraging local AI founders from relocating their businesses abroad to avoid regulatory oversight.
Manus specializes in developing general-purpose AI agents and launched its first AI agent capable of performing complex tasks last year.
Meta's initial announcement of the acquisition indicated plans to enhance AI innovation and integrate advanced automation into its products.

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China orders Meta to cancel $2 billion acquisition of AI startup Manus

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