Asian AI startups launch Mythos-like models as Anthropic’s export ban drags on

Ah, the great AI containment policy strikes again — by which we mean it spectacularly fails to contain anything. The U.S. export ban on Anthropic's Mythos, designed to keep advanced AI out of adversary hands, has instead handed Asian startups a golden opportunity. Sakana AI, with the straightest of faces, called its new Mythos-competitive model release 'entirely coincidental' — which is about as believable as a politician's promise to 'drain the swamp.' The timing, of course, is immaculate: the very moment the ban leaves a gap, along comes a startup to fill it.

One can almost hear the collective eye-roll from the Biden (or Trump) administration officials who thought export controls would slow China's AI progress. Instead, they've created a thriving market for Mythos-alikes in Asia, with startups popping up like mushrooms after rain. 'Entirely coincidental' indeed — if you believe that, you probably think the coal industry is booming because of seasonal fashion trends. The ban hasn't prevented anyone from developing competitive models; it's merely redirected the effort, and now Anthropic's lead is being eroded not just by rivals in Beijing but by startup studios in Tokyo and Seoul.

The cruel irony is that the ban was intended to protect national security, but it's becoming a gift to the competition. By restricting access to Mythos, the U.S. has effectively told the rest of the world: 'Here's a market opportunity, go build your own.' And they are, quite enthusiastically. The 'coincidental' timing of Sakana's launch suggests that export controls might be the best accelerant for AI development outside America. So, well done, policymakers: you've managed to create the very thing you wanted to prevent — a vibrant, independent AI ecosystem in Asia that owes nothing to the U.S.