China: China Ministry of Commerce announced assessment of Meta Platforms acquisition of Manus

On 8 January 2026, the China Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) announced an assessment of Meta Platforms Inc's acquisition of the Manus artificial intelligence platform. The MOFCOM spokesperson stated at a regular press briefing that enterprises engaging in outbound investment, technology export, cross-border data transfer, and cross-border mergers and acquisitions are required to comply with Chinese laws and regulations and complete the relevant statutory procedures. The assessment will be conducted with relevant departments and will examine the consistency of the acquisition with the regulatory frameworks on export control, technology import and export, and outbound investment.