BEIJING, Dec 3 – In a significant escalation in the ongoing technological rivalry, China has announced new restrictions on the export of critical materials used in semiconductor production to the United States. The move comes after the U.S. imposed its own limitations, targeting Chinese companies involved in advanced chip production.
China’s Ministry of Commerce stated on Tuesday that it would limit exports of materials essential for the manufacturing of semiconductors, including metals such as gallium, antimony, and germanium. These materials play a crucial role in the production of advanced chips used in everything from artificial intelligence (AI) systems to military technologies. The ministry cited national security concerns as the reason for the restrictions.
Additionally, graphite exports, another key component in chip production, will be subject to stringent controls, with China indicating that it will monitor the final recipients of the material closely.
“Any organization, individual, or country that violates relevant regulations will be held accountable, in accordance with the law,” the statement from the Ministry of Commerce read.
This development follows the U.S.’s recent move on Monday, which imposed restrictions on 140 Chinese companies, including Piotech and SiCarrier, that are involved in semiconductor production. These companies are now required to obtain special permissions to purchase U.S.-made equipment and technology, which limits their ability to advance chip manufacturing.
The U.S. restrictions are part of Washington’s broader strategy to curb China’s ability to produce high-performance chips that could be used in advanced weapons systems and AI applications, which are seen as critical for future defense and technological supremacy.
In response, China has vowed to protect its interests, accusing the U.S. of “abusing export control measures” and undermining “normal economic and trade exchanges” between the two nations.
