# China Proposes AI Export Controls

On October 16, China proposed revisions to its technology export-control catalogue covering 40 technologies, including 23 AI-related technologies as well as chips, biotechnology, and photovoltaics; China has also announced plans to restrict or prohibit exports in these areas on national-security grounds. The signals identify no procurement award, consultation deadline, effective date, or specific licensing rules. Government buyers and contractors with China-linked technology sourcing or cross-border AI access may face supply-chain and availability risks as details develop.

- Companies should assess dependencies on Chinese AI, chip, and solar technology supply chains and identify products or capabilities that could be affected.
- Technology firms and contractors should evaluate China-related licensing and data exposure, including access to advanced AI capabilities such as AI-assisted vulnerability discovery.
- The proposal is not presented as an effective requirement; procurement teams should avoid assuming specific restrictions or timelines until the catalogue details and implementation terms are established.

**Jurisdictions:** international
**Industries:** Information Technology
**Topics:** Regulatory Compliance, Artificial Intelligence
**Published:** October 18, 2026

### Government Entities
- Ministry of Commerce of the People's Republic of China (MOFCOM)
- Ministry of Science and Technology of the People's Republic of China (MOST)

### Vendors
- ASML (Supplier of advanced lithography equipment)

### Sources
- [China moves to curb tech exports, including AI, citing national security risks - The Washington Post](https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2026/10/16/china-export-restrictions-ai-chips-solar-us/216d5918-c95c-11f1-aefb-abe4112d087e_story.html) - The Washington Post
- [China Proposes Export-Control Revisions for 23 AI Technologies to Further Secure Critical Infrastructure and Government Systems - Vision Times](https://www.visiontimes.com/2026/10/17/china-proposes-export-control-revisions-for-23-ai-technologies-to-further-secure-critical-infrastructure-and-government-systems.html) - Vision Times