The Chinese Foreign Ministry confirmed Monday that Wells Fargo executive Mao Chenyue is being prohibited from leaving China pending a criminal investigation. Authorities say Mao is “involved in a criminal case” and is required to cooperate, though no formal charges have been announced.
Mao, an American citizen based in Atlanta, traveled to China and discovered upon attempting to return to the U.S. that she was unable to exit the country. Wells Fargo confirmed her situation and has suspended employee travel to China out of concern. The financial firm stated it is “closely tracking this situation and working through the appropriate channels” to secure her return.
When pressed, Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun emphasized that China is “handling the case in accordance with the law” and pledged to protect Mao’s legal rights during the investigation. Guo also reassured foreign businesses and investors that China remains open for business and will safeguard their interests.
Reports suggest China has also restricted the departure of a separate U.S. citizen, a Commerce Department employee reportedly detained in Chengdu upon arrival. While the Foreign Ministry declined to confirm the second case, embassy officials acknowledged their concern over what they described as “arbitrary exit bans” on American citizens and their effect on bilateral relations.
While Mao’s alleged criminal involvement remains unclear, officials say she was part of a Chinese criminal case. She previously held an industry leadership role in accounts receivable, including working with Chinese corporations. U.S. officials have demanded transparency and due process in her case.
The detention reflects growing tensions over China’s unpredictable treatment of foreign executives, following high-profile incidents like the disappearance and sidelining of Alibaba founder Jack Ma in 2021. China has since launched initiatives to attract foreign investment, but the lack of legal clarity continues to concern global businesses.
