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China Plans to Restrict Exports of AI and Solar Technology

PolicyOctober 20, 20261 min read

China wants to limit the export of some key technologies, mainly in AI, solar power and biotech. The plan is in a government draft that is still open for comments.

What happened

According to a draft from the Chinese government, China plans to restrict exports of key technologies. The main areas are AI (artificial intelligence), solar technology and biotechnology. A registration rule for transferring these technologies has already been in force since last Friday. Anyone can send comments on the draft until November 15.

Key numbers

The draft lists 40 technologies, according to Reuters.
26 of them would need an export permit.
14 of them would be banned from export completely.
23 of the listed technologies are AI applications, such as AI agents and methods for large AI models.
Comments on the draft can be sent until November 15.

Background

In July, Beijing already talked with technology companies about possible limits on access to Chinese AI models. China and the US have limited each other's trade for a long time. In May, China widened travel limits for AI experts to keep important know-how inside the country.

Why it matters

The government says the plans are about security. It warns that AI could be used to attack critical infrastructure, such as power or water systems. Solar technology is also used in space and in defense. Because the rules are meant to apply worldwide, they could change how companies everywhere share technology. Apps and websites that give access to AI are likely to stay allowed, and AI tools that are already public should remain available.

What to watch

Whether the final rules match the draft, and when they take effect.
Which companies get export permits for the 26 technologies that need them.
How the US and other countries respond.
Whether China and the US start working together on AI safety, for example through a 'red phone' for AI incidents. Right now this is rare.

Glossary

Reuters: A global news agency that reports business and world news.

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