# China's National Development and Reform Commission ordered Meta to unwind its acquisition of AI startup Manus.

*genai · news · 2026-04-27 · Decrypt*

## Key points

- China's NDRC ordered Meta to unwind its $2 billion acquisition of AI startup Manus.
- Manus co-founders Xiao Hong and Ji Yichao were barred from leaving China during the probe.
- Despite Manus relocating to Singapore in 2025, Chinese regulators still blocked Meta's deal.
- Manus closed China offices and laid off staff in July 2025 amid regulatory scrutiny.
- Manus reached $100 million in annual recurring revenue just eight months after launching.

**Companies:** Meta, Manus
**Countries:** China, Singapore

[Read the full story on Decrypt](https://decrypt.co/365644/china-blocks-meta-2-billion-acquisition-ai-startup-manus)

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