A representative from the Ministry of Commerce addressed inquiries from journalists concerning the United States' intention to probe and potentially impose sanctions on Chinese artificial intelligence (AI) enterprises.

Q: Recently, certain high-ranking US officials have asserted their intention to investigate claims of Chinese AI companies engaging in the alleged 'distillation' of US advanced models, with the possibility of sanctions being levied against Chinese firms under the pretext of 'intellectual property theft from the US.' What is China's stance on this matter?

A: China has acknowledged the pertinent circumstances and has consistently opposed the US's tendency to politicize and weaponize scientific, technological, economic, and trade matters. Furthermore, China condemns the US's practice of stigmatizing and sanctioning Chinese companies without substantial evidence. The US side disregards the fact that Chinese AI models were unveiled concurrently with, or in some instances, prior to their US counterparts, showcasing superior capabilities in certain areas. It baselessly accuses Chinese firms of relying on 'distillation techniques' and 'pilfering US intellectual property,' while threatening sanctions. Such actions lack both factual and legal justification and exemplify AI hegemony.

China urges the US to heed the reasonable appeals from the business communities of both nations, abandon its hegemonic attitude, and desist from engaging in smear campaigns and issuing threats of sanctions. China will adopt requisite measures to protect its rights and interests in response to any detrimental actions. China aspires for the US to honor the consensus achieved by the leaders of the two countries, enhance dialogue with China on AI, jointly foster its positive evolution, and, through improved governance, generate benefits for both nations and the global community.