China Restricts Overseas Travel for AI Professionals at Alibaba, DeepSeek and Other Private Firms

May 26, 2026

China is restricting overseas travel for top AI professionals at private firms like Alibaba and DeepSeek, requiring them to get government approval before trips. The move, which expands long-standing controls on state-enterprise staff, aims to safeguard technology and close the AI gap with the US. Analysts warn the policy could complicate talent retention, as China increasingly treats AI expertise as a national strategic asset.

Private sector travel restrictions

▪Individuals are reportedly selected based on their strategic importance rather than just their seniority or job title.
▪Affected individuals must now obtain approval from relevant authorities before embarking on overseas travel.
▪The restrictions apply to personnel deemed strategically important, including startup founders, senior executives, and researchers.
▪China is restricting overseas travel for top AI professionals at private firms, including Alibaba Group Holding Ltd. and DeepSeek.

AI talent mobility controls

▪Some AI professionals were already required to disclose travel plans, but formal pre-approval is a new, mandatory step for selected personnel.
▪Previously, Chinese authorities advised leading AI founders and researchers to avoid visiting the US, though it was not a formal ban.
▪Analysts warn the policy could complicate talent retention and global collaboration for Chinese AI companies.
▪The Chinese government increasingly views AI talent as a national strategic asset.

State enterprise policy expansion

▪It is common practice in China for state-owned enterprises to hold the passports of senior executives.
▪The new measures are an expansion of long-standing travel controls on individuals in sectors like nuclear science and state-owned enterprises.

Technology leak prevention measures

▪The restrictions are intended to safeguard China's technology and help it catch up to the US in the AI field.
▪The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology did not respond to a faxed request for comment.

Manus acquisition regulatory intervention

▪Beijing demanded Meta Platforms unwind its reported $2 billion acquisition of Manus, an AI startup that originated in China.
▪As part of the response to the Manus deal, authorities reportedly barred two of the company's co-founders from leaving China.