Meta faces China probe over acquisition of AI agent startup Manus

Meta faces China probe over acquisition of AI agent startup Manus


Chinese officials are reviewing Meta’s $2 billion acquisition of AI startup Manus for possible technology control violations, FT reported on Tuesday.

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China said Thursday it will investigate Meta‘s $2 billion acquisition of artificial intelligence startup Manus to assess its compliance with export control laws.

Meta acquired Singapore-based Manus last month as the U.S. tech giant looks to integrate advanced automation into its consumer and enterprise products.

Terms of the acquisition were not disclosed, but the Wall Street Journal reported that the deal closed at an amount over $2 billion, according to sources familiar with the acquisition.

China’s Ministry of Commerce said it will conduct an assessment and investigation into how the acquisition complies with laws and regulations concerning export controls, technology import and export, and overseas investment, according to a statement translated by Google.

“The Chinese government consistently supports enterprises in conducting mutually beneficial transnational operations and international technological cooperation in accordance with laws and regulations,” Ministry of Commerce spokesperson He Yadong said at a press briefing.

CNBC has contacted Meta for comment.

This is a breaking news story. Please refresh for updates.



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