China AI export restrictions are changing the rules of the game, but why are DeepSeek and MiniMax still allowed to expand overseas? Discover what this means for global businesses, e-commerce, and the future of AI.

China is tightening its AI export rules, but it isn’t shutting the door on global business. The new China AI export restrictions require licences for certain advanced technologies, yet two major AI companies, DeepSeek and MiniMax have reportedly received authorization to export their technologies, this shows how China wants to protect its advanced AI capabilities without losing business opportunities abroad.

The decision comes as governments worldwide look for ways to control sensitive technologies while encouraging domestic companies to compete internationally.

China Wants Control Without Losing Its AI Market

In mid-October 2026, China’s Ministry of Commerce proposed changes to its Catalogue of Technologies Prohibited and Restricted from Export. The revised list covers 23 technologies linked to large language models, intelligent agents, computing clusters and information processing.

Companies exporting restricted technologies must obtain the necessary licences. However, open-source technologies receive exemptions under the proposed framework.

The rules aim to protect technologies considered important to China’s national interests, including advanced computing systems and AI tools with potential military applications. At the same time, Beijing wants its technology companies to expand internationally.

A post by Yuyuan Tantian, a WeChat account affiliated with Chinese state broadcaster CCTV, reported that DeepSeek and MiniMax had secured authorization to continue overseas exports. The report did not receive immediate confirmation from either company.

The post explained the commercial intention behind the policy, stating, “Simply put, AI companies can continue with their commercialization efforts as usual.”

Why Does This Matter for Global E-Commerce?

The application of AI in online shopping ranges from product recommendations to customer service and inventory management. Foreign expansion of AI companies in China would provide more choices for e-commerce companies to use such technology.

At the same time, the restrictions may involve new compliance obligations for businesses exporting their advanced AI technologies. Companies utilizing AI services should also be aware of the areas that are subject to export control.

The reported exemptions on the use of open source technology and foreign activities indicate that China is attempting to differentiate between sensitive technology and general business operations. And the U.S. government has also placed restrictions on the export of advanced AI chips to China.

The AI Boom Faces Other Challenges

China’s policy shift comes as the AI infrastructure industry encounters difficulties elsewhere. In Australia, the data center firm Firmus called off its planned IPO amid investor concerns about its valuation and projected revenues.

Meanwhile, NEXTDC revised its revenue projections down because of community opposition to power infrastructure required for an expansion of its data centers. The cases reveal that the progress of AI is dependent not only on technology but also on investments and electricity.

What Comes Next for AI-Powered Commerce?

As Business Fortune observes, the strategy employed by China may have an impact on how other nations strike a balance between security of technology and international business. Anyway, the next question that needs to be answered by e-commerce firms is which AI tools can be used and from where.

As the use of AI increases, companies will most probably look for low-cost and dependable technology that follows local laws. The future of global e-commerce might depend on how governments protect important technology without slowing  innovation and international business.

Sources: https://www.theregister.com/ai-and-ml/2026/10/26/after-threatening-ai-export-bans-china-allows-deepseek-to-keep-selling/5305267 https://news.lavx.hu/article/china-allows-deepseek-exports-after-threatening-ai-bans https://thenextweb.com/news/deepseek-minimax-china-ai-export-controls-overseas