China Proposes Sweeping Export Ban on AI-Powered Malware and Exploitation Tools

China's ministry of commerce and science announced sweeping export restrictions on 40 technologies on October 16, including 23 AI systems designed to generate and evade detection of malicious code. The proposal targets AI-assisted cybersecurity technologies deemed dual-use risks, splitting controls into 14 outright prohibitions and 26 requiring export licenses. Public comment runs through November 15, 2026, though an interim registration requirement took effect immediately.