China’s AI Export Controls Exclude Overseas Model Services Via APIs

China’s temporary AI export controls do not cover models provided overseas through APIs, websites or apps, while DeepSeek and MiniMax have completed registration under the system.

China launched AI technology export registration management Oct. 16. As of Oct. 23, the new catalogue was still open for comments, and the temporary registration system remained in effect. The companies completed registration and made related technology available through open-source releases and overseas licensing, continuing the registration procedures covered earlier.

The Ministry of Commerce has clarified that technology already in the public domain through open-source release is excluded from management. Newly open-sourced AI technology can use automatic licensing and similar measures, generally allowing export upon filing.

The controls cover large-model technology exports, while providing models overseas through an API, website or app is outside their scope. The catalogue remained under comment as of Oct. 23.