China Blocks Meta's $2bn Acquisition of AI Start-Up Manus

Facebook-owner Meta's acquisition of AI start-up Manus has been blocked by Chinese regulators.

Announced in late December, Meta said the deal - estimated to be worth around $2bn (£1.48bn) at the time - would see Manus' agents used to boost to its own AI across its platforms.

But reports on Monday said Beijing's National Development and Reform Commission had prohibited foreign investment in the deal, requiring "the parties involved to withdraw the acquisition transaction".

A Meta spokesperson told the BBC "the transaction complied fully with applicable law".

"We anticipate an appropriate resolution to the inquiry," they added.

It comes after months of scrutiny over Meta's acquisition of Manus by Chinese regulators.

Manus has sought to set itself apart from rival AI developers with what it claims can be a "truly autonomous" agent.

Unlike many chatbots which need to be repeatedly asked for things before a user can get their desired response, the company says its service can plan, execute and complete tasks independently in accordance with instructions.

- Author: Liv McMahon, BBC

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