China Opposes U.S. Order to Remove DeepSeek From Civilian Agencies

China criticized a U.S. order to remove DeepSeek technology from federal civilian agency systems and exclude its products from procurement, objecting to what it called the politicization of technology and trade.

The Department of Homeland Security order bars federal civilian agencies from buying information technology products and services developed by Hangzhou DeepSeek Artificial Intelligence Co., Ltd. or its affiliates. It also directs agencies to remove DeepSeek and affiliate products from their systems, along with third-party products and services developed using DeepSeek technology.

At an Oct. 20 briefing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said China opposes broadening the concept of national security and turning technology and trade issues into political matters. “We will resolutely safeguard Chinese businesses’ lawful rights and interests,” Mao said.

The question that prompted Mao’s response raised a concern about possible transfers of sensitive data. Her answer addressed China’s opposition to the restriction but did not discuss data handling. The order applies to federal civilian agencies and specified DeepSeek-related technology, rather than Chinese AI products generally.

The notice is scheduled for publication Oct. 20.