Credited from: SCMP
China has strongly condemned the United States for its recent export restrictions on high-tech chips, particularly those produced by Huawei, urging the US to "immediately correct its wrongdoings" and cease what it describes as discriminatory measures. According to the Chinese Ministry of Commerce, the US's actions seriously undermine bilateral agreements and threaten the stability of global semiconductor supply chains, viewing these restrictions as unfounded accusations against Chinese technology, especially Huawei's Ascend AI chips, which were flagged for potential violations of US export regulations. This sentiment was echoed after a series of high-level talks in Geneva, aimed at fostering better trade relations, were put at risk by these unilateral policies, according to Channel News Asia and AA.
Further escalating the issue, China characterized the US's export control measures as typical "bullying" and "protectionism." The Commerce Ministry has warned that such actions could provoke resolute countermeasures if the US persists in harming Chinese interests. This includes the potential for violations of Chinese law for any organization or individual assisting in the enforcement of these US measures, indicating that the Chinese government is prepared to retaliate should these restrictions be implemented, as noted in reports from Channel News Asia and India Times.
In addition, the US Bureau of Industry and Security has released guidelines banning the use of Chinese-made chips globally, including those from Huawei, aimed at restricting the use of American technology in Chinese AI systems. The statement from the Chinese Ministry emphasized that these actions threaten the legitimate interests of Chinese companies and hinder innovation in the global tech landscape. Beijing's response also outlined that companies relying on these chips could face substantial legal repercussions under its Anti-Foreign Sanctions Law, which could lead to prosecution and compensation claims against entities aiding in the enforcement of US sanctions, as reported by South China Morning Post and India Times.
The ongoing tension comes amid a significant geopolitical battle over semiconductor technology, which has seen major companies panic over potential legal and market ramifications. As nations navigate these complex supply chain issues, Beijing's stern warnings signal an escalating trade conflict with global implications, reflecting a growing divide in the tech landscape between the US and China, according to Channel News Asia and Channel News Asia.