Chinese companies such as Alibaba, ByteDance, and Meituan are rapidly expanding their presence in the U.S., hiring talent from top American firms to work on AI projects.
Alibaba's AI Push in the U.S.
Alibaba is setting up a major AI team in Sunnyvale, California. The company is focused on roles in machine learning and applied sciences. A key project is Accio, an AI-driven search engine for international commerce. Plans include spinning off this team into a separate startup.
Meituan’s Quiet Expansion
Meituan, known for food delivery, is building its AI capabilities in California. Led by returning co-founder Wang Huiwen, the GN06 team is developing AI companions and menu translations.
ByteDance’s TikTok Edge
ByteDance strengthens its foothold in California with AI projects for TikTok and the Doubao language model. Under the guidance of AI director Zhu Wenjia, the team effectively integrates AI into company products like TikTok.
These moves by Chinese companies occur amid complex political relations between the U.S. and China. Despite restrictions, firms find ways to expand their presence and attract talent from Silicon Valley.
