Symbolic imageChina proposes export controls on 40 technologies in AI, biotech and solar
Chinese authorities on Friday proposed adding 40 technologies, 23 of them AI-related, to export controls. Public comment runs until 15 November.
The draft covers AI chips, large language models, solar and biotechnology, The National reports. Beijing says it aims to curb misuse, and most items could still be exported without heavy restrictions under simplified licensing. Leonhard Xu of consultancy Sinolytics notes that registration applies immediately, even to exports already shipping, and that export control is mostly not a ban. Ting Peng of BZW Law Firm says registration also reaches certain cross-border IP transfers and licensing arrangements.
Strain on the trade truce
Last month Washington and Beijing agreed to cut tariffs on $30 billion of goods and open an AI dialogue after Xi Jinping visited the White House. Wendy Cutler of the Asia Institute says the move shows the truce is fragile and expects the US to respond with its own restrictions.
Other opinions
Chinese outlet Global Times calls the draft a "necessary step" to safeguard national security and says the commerce ministry wants to ensure safety and encourage open-source sharing.