China Launches Probe into US Chip Maker Micron in Response to Tech Export Restrictions
In a move perceived as retaliation against recent restrictions on tech exports to China, the Chinese government has launched a cybersecurity probe into US-based chip maker Micron Technology. The Cyberspace Administration of China announced its investigation late on Friday, stating that it will review products sold by Micron in the country.
The probe is aimed at ensuring the security of key information infrastructure supply chains and preventing potential cybersecurity risks caused by "hidden product problems," according to a statement from the administration. This move comes as tensions between the US and China escalate over issues related to technology exports, with Washington and its allies imposing curbs on China's semiconductor industry.
In recent weeks, Japan has also announced restrictions on exporting advanced chip manufacturing equipment to countries including China, following similar moves by the US and the Netherlands. These measures are part of a broader effort by the US and its allies to limit China's access to cutting-edge technology and slow its economic rise.
Micron Technology, one of America's largest memory chip makers, derives more than 10% of its revenue from China. The company has warned in an earlier filing that it faces risks related to its operations in the country, including the potential for restrictions on its participation in the Chinese market or even a ban on competing with local companies.
As tensions between the US and China continue to rise, Beijing is facing mounting pressure to open up its economy and welcome foreign investments. However, the government has also been exerting increasing pressure on foreign companies to conform to its agenda, including detaining staff from international firms and imposing fines.
The recent restrictions on tech exports have sparked criticism from China, with authorities describing them as "firmly opposed." Beijing has long sought to use its growing economic influence to promote its interests abroad, but the latest developments suggest that Washington is determined to limit its access to critical technology.
In a move perceived as retaliation against recent restrictions on tech exports to China, the Chinese government has launched a cybersecurity probe into US-based chip maker Micron Technology. The Cyberspace Administration of China announced its investigation late on Friday, stating that it will review products sold by Micron in the country.
The probe is aimed at ensuring the security of key information infrastructure supply chains and preventing potential cybersecurity risks caused by "hidden product problems," according to a statement from the administration. This move comes as tensions between the US and China escalate over issues related to technology exports, with Washington and its allies imposing curbs on China's semiconductor industry.
In recent weeks, Japan has also announced restrictions on exporting advanced chip manufacturing equipment to countries including China, following similar moves by the US and the Netherlands. These measures are part of a broader effort by the US and its allies to limit China's access to cutting-edge technology and slow its economic rise.
Micron Technology, one of America's largest memory chip makers, derives more than 10% of its revenue from China. The company has warned in an earlier filing that it faces risks related to its operations in the country, including the potential for restrictions on its participation in the Chinese market or even a ban on competing with local companies.
As tensions between the US and China continue to rise, Beijing is facing mounting pressure to open up its economy and welcome foreign investments. However, the government has also been exerting increasing pressure on foreign companies to conform to its agenda, including detaining staff from international firms and imposing fines.
The recent restrictions on tech exports have sparked criticism from China, with authorities describing them as "firmly opposed." Beijing has long sought to use its growing economic influence to promote its interests abroad, but the latest developments suggest that Washington is determined to limit its access to critical technology.