China is reportedly increasing its oversight of DeepSeek, a fast-growing AI startup, amid concerns over intellectual property and foreign influence.
DeepSeek made headlines in January with the launch of its open “reasoning” model, R1, quickly positioning itself as a potential breakthrough in China’s AI sector. However, according to The Information, the company is now operating under stricter government-imposed regulations.
Some DeepSeek employees are reportedly facing restrictions on international travel, with its parent company, High-Flyer, allegedly holding onto certain staff members’ passports. Additionally, the Chinese government is said to be screening potential investors, signaling a heightened level of state involvement in the company’s operations.
These developments align with broader government efforts to prevent AI researchers and entrepreneurs from traveling to the U.S., fearing the potential loss of trade secrets.
