China's new export curbs draw a line around its AI crown jewels
SMH•China proposed rules that would add 23 AI-related technologies to its restricted-export list, while broadly allowing overseas users to access Chinese AI through websites and cloud platforms. The proposals could require government approval for some technology transfers and overseas deployments.
1. Draft rules distinguish access
China's proposed AI export curbs distinguish between foreign customers using Chinese AI services and companies obtaining the models, data or expertise to operate or reproduce them independently. The draft would broadly allow access through websites and cloud platforms, while subjecting some technology transfers and overseas deployments to government approval.
2. Technologies and thresholds
The draft would add 23 AI-related technologies to the list of technologies banned or restricted from export, including advanced models, AI agents and technology used to design chips and run large computing facilities. Models could be covered if their training requires at least 10 to the power of 26 calculations, they have at least 2 trillion parameters, or they rank among the world's top 10 in certain assessments. The proposals are open for public comment until November 15, and China is expected to adopt them by year-end, with implementation guidelines to follow.
3. Overseas operations in focus
The rules could affect how Chinese AI firms run models on overseas data centres, structure partnerships and handle foreign ownership of AI assets. A temporary registration requirement for certain transfers took effect on October 16. The draft offers simplified approvals for Chinese companies building and operating their own computing facilities abroad, but not expressly for transferring technology to foreign customers to build equivalent systems.
