Thought Leadership
The tariff dispute between the USA and China has recently paused for breath – but now there is new trouble surrounding trade in AI chips.
Beijing protests strongly against US warnings to third countries not to buy advanced chips from Chinese tech company Huawei.
The Chinese Ministry of Commerce described a corresponding US directive as “one-sided bullying and protectionism” that would seriously affect the global semiconductor industry and supply chains.
The US government recently warned companies around the world against using the so-called Ascend AI chips from the company based in Shenzhen in southern China. According to Washington, their use could violate US export controls.
Beijing threatens with countermeasures
The Ministry of Commerce in Beijing accused the US of denying other countries the right to develop in key areas such as artificial intelligence and high technology. In addition, organizations or individuals who implement or support these US measures could be held responsible under Chinese law.
China called on the US to immediately correct its “wrong decisions” and respect international economic and trade rules. The developments will be closely monitored and “resolute measures” will be taken to protect the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese companies.
USA wants to slow China down on AI
The US has been trying to prevent advanced chips from the US company Nvidia from reaching the Chinese market for some time. Huawei is therefore pressing ahead with the development of its own AI chips. However, the new US regulations could make it more difficult for Huawei to sell its chips in third countries.
The US and China recently reached a temporary agreement in Geneva to reduce tariffs in their ongoing trade dispute. According to some observers, the new US restrictions could now jeopardize this progress.
dpa
