China Tightens Travel Rules for Top AI Researchers Amid Tech Rivalry

China is reportedly tightening restrictions on overseas travel for top artificial intelligence talent working at major domestic firms such as Alibaba and DeepSeek, Andrew Nusca reported for Fortune Tech.

The travel restrictions reportedly apply to startup founders, executives, and researchers in advanced AI fields, though specific eligibility criteria remain unclear.

A Bloomberg report said individuals involved in strategically sensitive AI research must obtain approval from authorities before traveling abroad. The policy is aimed at protecting intellectual property and preventing technology leakage amid intensifying competition with the United States.

The restrictions reportedly apply to startup founders, executives, and researchers in advanced AI fields, though specific eligibility criteria remain unclear.

The move reflects Beijing’s broader efforts to control strategic technologies, though analysts warn such measures could make it harder for Chinese firms to attract and retain global talent.