China’s newly introduced AI export control framework has seen leading companies DeepSeek and MiniMax successfully navigate registration to obtain licenses for overseas distribution of AI models and open-source technology, signaling a calibrated approach to tech export regulation.
- DeepSeek and MiniMax cleared for AI model exports after registration
- Controls limit exports of AI trained on core Chinese data and high-performance agents
- Open-source AI technology and overseas Chinese computing centers are exempt
What happened
In mid-October, China introduced a new policy to control the export of advanced AI technologies, requiring companies to register before exporting certain restricted AI models. DeepSeek and MiniMax have become the first companies to complete this process successfully, obtaining licenses to export AI models and open-source technologies internationally. This was confirmed in a post by Yuyuan Tantian, affiliated with China’s state broadcaster CCTV.
The policy identifies specific categories of AI technology subject to export restrictions—those trained on 'core data,' high-performance AI agents used in critical infrastructure or government affairs, and components such as AI chip designs and computing clusters. However, much of the AI landscape, including open-source projects and technologies already published academically, remains unrestricted. The registration and export licensing process is intended to balance national security with commercial innovation.
Why it matters
China's AI export controls reflect the government’s intent to safeguard sensitive data and technology while still encouraging AI commercialization and international cooperation. By allowing open-source AI releases and licensing overseas operations more freely, authorities aim to avoid stifling global competitiveness of Chinese AI firms amid rising geopolitical tensions around AI technology.
These controls also distinguish China’s approach from the more stringent US methods, which include broader prohibitions on AI diffusion. The policy provides clarity for AI companies on what requires licensing, reducing uncertainty over overseas market expansion. It also supports international standards development and cooperation under frameworks such as the World AI Cooperation Organization to foster responsible AI use globally.
What to watch next
A public consultation on the AI export policy remains open until mid-November, offering stakeholders an opportunity to influence the final details of export restrictions. Industry participants will be closely monitoring the regulations’ impact on innovation, exports, and compliance costs as companies implement new licensing procedures.
Further developments may arise from how the policy is enforced and whether additional technologies are added to the restricted list over time. Observers should also watch for responses from other Chinese AI model developers and how overseas partners respond to the expanded licensing regime, especially given the significance of AI chip exports and international collaborative research.