Can the US and China verify an AI deal? Start-ups are starting to build the tools
scmp.com Sep 24, 2026

Can the US and China verify an AI deal? Start-ups are starting to build the tools

AI-summarised brief · reviewed before publication

Researchers and start‑ups are developing “AI verification” tools that could let third parties and governments monitor how artificial‑intelligence models are trained and used without direct access to the underlying systems. The technology aims to provide evidence that the United States and China are complying with any agreed‑upon slowdown of AI development, addressing trust gaps between Washington and Beijing. The initiative gains urgency ahead of a scheduled meeting between President Donald Trump and President Xi Jinping, where AI policy is expected to be a key agenda item. The tools remain experimental, and significant work is needed before they can reliably audit large‑scale AI facilities.

💡 Why It Matters

  • · By enabling independent verification, the technology could transform how global AI governance is enforced, reducing reliance on diplomatic trust.
  • · It offers a concrete mechanism for holding powerful tech states accountable in a field where opaque development practices have long hindered international oversight.