China Launches Cybersecurity Probe into US Chip Maker Micron Technology Amid Escalating Tech Tensions
In a move that could have significant implications for the global semiconductor industry, China has launched a cybersecurity probe into US chip maker Micron Technology, one of America's largest memory chip manufacturers. The Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) will review products sold by Micron in the country, citing concerns about potential cybersecurity risks.
The CAC stated that its review aims to "ensure the security of key information infrastructure supply chains, prevent cybersecurity risks caused by hidden product problems, and maintain national security." This move is seen as a response to recent restrictions on tech exports imposed by US allies Japan and the Netherlands, which are aimed at curbing China's growing influence in the global semiconductor market.
Micron Technology has confirmed that it is aware of the review and is cooperating fully with the CAC. The company stated that its product shipments, engineering, manufacturing, sales, and other functions are operating as normal, and that Micron stands by the security of its products.
Shares in Micron sank 4.4% on Wall Street following the news, marking the largest drop in over three months. The company derives more than 10% of its revenue from China, making it a significant target for Chinese regulatory scrutiny.
China has already imposed restrictions on foreign companies operating in the country, detaining staff and suspending operations for several US firms, including Deloitte's Beijing office and Mintz Group. These moves have been seen as part of a broader effort by Beijing to exert greater control over the global tech industry and limit the influence of Western companies.
The escalating tensions between China and the US in the semiconductor sector come amid growing concerns about national security and intellectual property protection. Beijing has accused Washington of attempting to strangle its tech ambitions, while the US has imposed restrictions on Chinese companies to prevent them from accessing advanced technologies that could be used for military purposes.
As the global chip shortage persists, countries are increasingly turning to domestic production and seeking to reduce their reliance on foreign suppliers. The probe into Micron Technology is seen as a significant development in this context, with potential implications for the entire semiconductor industry.
In a move that could have significant implications for the global semiconductor industry, China has launched a cybersecurity probe into US chip maker Micron Technology, one of America's largest memory chip manufacturers. The Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) will review products sold by Micron in the country, citing concerns about potential cybersecurity risks.
The CAC stated that its review aims to "ensure the security of key information infrastructure supply chains, prevent cybersecurity risks caused by hidden product problems, and maintain national security." This move is seen as a response to recent restrictions on tech exports imposed by US allies Japan and the Netherlands, which are aimed at curbing China's growing influence in the global semiconductor market.
Micron Technology has confirmed that it is aware of the review and is cooperating fully with the CAC. The company stated that its product shipments, engineering, manufacturing, sales, and other functions are operating as normal, and that Micron stands by the security of its products.
Shares in Micron sank 4.4% on Wall Street following the news, marking the largest drop in over three months. The company derives more than 10% of its revenue from China, making it a significant target for Chinese regulatory scrutiny.
China has already imposed restrictions on foreign companies operating in the country, detaining staff and suspending operations for several US firms, including Deloitte's Beijing office and Mintz Group. These moves have been seen as part of a broader effort by Beijing to exert greater control over the global tech industry and limit the influence of Western companies.
The escalating tensions between China and the US in the semiconductor sector come amid growing concerns about national security and intellectual property protection. Beijing has accused Washington of attempting to strangle its tech ambitions, while the US has imposed restrictions on Chinese companies to prevent them from accessing advanced technologies that could be used for military purposes.
As the global chip shortage persists, countries are increasingly turning to domestic production and seeking to reduce their reliance on foreign suppliers. The probe into Micron Technology is seen as a significant development in this context, with potential implications for the entire semiconductor industry.