Chinese AI firms shunned US delegation over sanctions fears, commission says

A US congressional advisory body, the US-China Economic and Security Review Commission (USCC), revealed on Friday that prominent Chinese artificial intelligence firms declined to meet its members during a visit to Beijing in July over fears of potential US sanctions. Randy Schriver, chairman of the USCC, said the firms were concerned that interacting with the commission could result in their inclusion on the US entities list.

Despite the firms' reluctance, the USCC emphasized the importance of the upcoming AI dialogue between Washington and Beijing. Randy Schriver, USCC chairman, stated that while the Chinese delegation expressed confidence regarding AI, they were hesitant to allow the USCC to meet with their labs. The delegation, which also included meetings with Chinese government officials, think tank experts, diplomats, and business representatives, highlighted the significant role of AI in their discussions.

The USCC's delegation had requested meetings with companies such as Alibaba and DeepSeek during their trip to Hangzhou, but their requests were denied. The Chinese embassy in Washington did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the matter. Although the embassy welcomed the USCC's visit, Beijing has historically criticized the commission's annual reports and other research.

In November last year, China denounced the USCC's annual report, which advocated for additional sanctions on Hong Kong. Nevertheless, Schriver expressed moderate optimism about the forthcoming talks between Washington and Beijing, particularly on AI, believing that such dialogue is necessary to avoid potential risks and dangers.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is anticipated to spearhead the US delegation's bilateral negotiations with Chinese counterparts on AI governance ahead of President Xi Jinping's visit to Washington later this month. Both nations are currently preparing for dedicated talks on AI, despite their divergent views on the scope of discussions.

China wishes to have a comprehensive conversation, while the US aims to concentrate on AI safety. The US administration has expressed its intention to share its AI expertise with the world's second-largest economy.