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China Launches Investigation Into Meta’s Acquisition of Manus AI

lite News Desk 2 min read

At a glance

  • China’s Ministry of Commerce announced a review of Meta’s purchase of Manus
  • The investigation will assess compliance with Chinese laws on investment and data
  • Meta acquired Manus in December 2025 for $2–3 billion

China’s Ministry of Commerce stated on January 8, 2026, that it will investigate Meta’s recent acquisition of the AI startup Manus. The review focuses on whether the transaction aligns with Chinese regulations concerning foreign investment, technology exports, data transfers, and cross-border mergers.

Meta completed its acquisition of Manus, an AI company based in Singapore with Chinese origins, in December 2025. The deal was valued between $2 billion and $3 billion, according to company disclosures and media reports.

The Ministry of Commerce said the investigation will consider several aspects of the acquisition, including the handling of technology and data involved in the transaction. The ministry’s announcement did not specify a timeline for the completion of the review process.

Meta stated that, following the acquisition, there will be no ongoing Chinese ownership interests in Manus AI. The company also said that Manus will discontinue its services and operations within China as part of the post-acquisition changes.

What the numbers show

  • Meta acquired Manus in December 2025
  • The acquisition was valued between $2 billion and $3 billion
  • Manus reported annual recurring revenue exceeding $100 million before the deal

Prior to the acquisition, Manus generated more than $100 million in annual recurring revenue. Most of the company’s employees are located in Singapore, and Manus will continue its operations there, according to information from Meta and media sources.

Meta’s statement confirmed that all Chinese ownership interests in Manus AI would end after the transaction. The company also indicated that Manus would cease all business activities in China, but maintain its presence in Singapore.

The Ministry of Commerce’s investigation will examine whether the acquisition meets requirements under Chinese law for foreign investment, technology export controls, and data transfer regulations. The ministry has not released further details about the scope or expected duration of the review.

* This article is based on publicly available information at the time of writing.

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