Chinese Authorities Bar Manus Founders Amid Meta Acquisition Scrutiny

Chinese officials have restricted Manus co-founders Xiao Hong and Ji Yichao from leaving the country following a review of Meta Platforms' $2 billion acquisition of the AI startup. The investigation focuses on potential violations of technology export control regulations and foreign direct investment rules. Since January 2026, Beijing has been assessing whether the acquisition poses national security risks, particularly concerning the loss of valuable technology to the U.S. Manus, which relocated to Singapore in 2025, has quickly gained prominence, achieving $100 million in annualized revenue within months. The founders were summoned for questioning by the National Development and Reform Commission, but no formal charges have been filed. Manus is currently seeking legal assistance to address the situation. The outcome of the inquiry could potentially lead to the unwinding of the acquisition.

Key Points: • Chinese authorities have barred Manus founders from leaving the country amid an investigation. • The review centers on potential violations of technology export control laws related to Meta's acquisition. • Manus achieved rapid success, generating $100 million in annual revenue shortly after its founding.