Key facts
- Draft rules distinguish between foreign users accessing AI services and those obtaining underlying technology.
- New rules would add 23 AI-related technologies to export restrictions.
- Tests for covered models include computing work, size (2 trillion parameters), or top 10 performance rankings.
China's proposed artificial intelligence export curbs, released on October 16, aim to keep valuable technology onshore while selling access abroad, a strategy favored by Beijing amid intensifying rivalry with the US. The draft rules differentiate between foreign customers using Chinese AI services and those obtaining the models, data, or expertise to operate them independently. This approach allows overseas users to access AI through websites and cloud platforms, while transfers of underlying technology or overseas deployments would require government approval. The rules could impact how leading Chinese AI firms operate advanced models on overseas data centers, structure international partnerships, and handle foreign investment or ownership of AI assets. Companies are seeking clarification on specific tests and provisions within the draft, which is open for public comment until November 15.