China proposes controls on 23 AI export technologies

China’s Ministry of Commerce has proposed adding 23 artificial intelligence technologies to the country’s restricted-or-prohibited export catalogue, while requiring advance registration for certain transfers immediately. The draft, announced October 16, distinguishes access to Chinese AI services from transfers of underlying technology, including model weights and source code. The proposed changes cover technologies used in advanced models, AI agents, chip design and systems coordinating clusters of more than 10,000 accelerators. They do not cover products made using AI technology. The registration requirement applies to specified transfers involving foreign ownership or control, including qualifying transactions already underway. The public comment period runs until November 15, 2026. Under the draft, overseas users would generally be able to access Chinese AI through services such as websites and cloud platforms without acquiring the underlying technology. Some transfers or overseas deployments of controlled technology would require government review. The ministry’s explanation, as reported in legal analysis, says access to large models through APIs, apps, web interfaces or...