Asian AI Startups Introduce New Models Amid U.S. Export Ban on Anthropic's Technology

Jun 27, 2026

AI Summary

Chinese firm 360 and Tokyo-based Sakana AI have launched new AI models as the U.S. export ban on Anthropic's Mythos and Fable 5 continues. These developments highlight a growing trend of local alternatives emerging in Asia, aimed at addressing the needs of regional businesses and governments while navigating export controls.

Chinese cybersecurity firm 360 has introduced Tulongfeng, an AI tool aimed at identifying software vulnerabilities, claiming it can compete with Anthropic's Mythos. The launch coincides with a U.S. export ban on Mythos and its variant Fable 5, which restricts access to non-Americans.
Sakana AI, a startup from Tokyo, has launched Fugu, an AI model designed for orchestration among various models, targeting Japanese businesses and government agencies. The company emphasizes that its release was coincidental and not a direct response to the export ban.
Both companies are positioning their models as alternatives to U.S. AI technology, with Sakana's co-founder Ren Ito stating that U.S. models remain significant in Asia. He advocates for collaborative development of AI rather than restrictive access.
360's founder Zhou Hongyi has described AI for vulnerability detection as a national strategic asset, expressing concerns over unequal access to advanced technologies.
The emergence of these models reflects a shift in the AI landscape in Asia, as local firms seek to fill the gap left by U.S. companies amid ongoing export restrictions.

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Asian AI Startups Introduce New Models Amid U.S. Export Ban on Anthropic's Technology

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