China's new export curbs draw a line around its AI crown jewels

China's proposed artificial intelligence 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 rules would broadly allow overseas access through websites and cloud platforms, while some technology transfers and deployments overseas would require government approval.

The draft adds 23 AI-related technologies to a list banning or restricting exports, including advanced models, task-performing agents and technology used to design chips and run large computing facilities. Models could be covered if 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. A temporary registration requirement for some transfers took effect October 16; public comment runs until November 15.

The rules could affect how Chinese AI firms run models on overseas data centres, structure partnerships and handle foreign investment or ownership of AI assets. Researchers are seeking clarification on whether advanced models can be trained or run on foreign-owned overseas servers; one possible outcome is maintaining separate domestic and overseas versions. The draft also provides 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.