Escalating Tensions as US Implements Restrictions on Export to China, Russia, and Iran
In a significant move exacerbating tensions between the United States and China, the US Commerce Department has added four Chinese technology companies to its Entity List. Allegedly, these companies have been involved in supplying artificial intelligence (AI) chips to bolster China’s military capabilities, prompting a swift response from Beijing. Additionally, the US has tightened its export controls on advanced semiconductor technologies, further complicating international relations.
Key Points:
- Blacklisted Companies: The four Chinese companies added to the Entity List are Linkzol (Beijing) Technology Co, Xi’an Like Innovative Information Technology Co, Beijing Anwise Technology Co, and SITONHOLY (Tianjin) Co. This designation severely restricts their ability to acquire American goods and technology.
- Military Involvement Allegations: According to Kevin Kurland, an export enforcement official, these companies have been implicated in procuring US AI chips for China’s military purposes. Such actions pose concerns for the US government regarding the diversion of sensitive technology to bolster China’s military modernization efforts.
- Chinese Response: China swiftly rejected the accusations, denouncing them as attempts to stifle Chinese companies. Mao Ning, a spokesperson for China’s Foreign Ministry, asserted that China would take necessary measures to safeguard its interests in response to these restrictions.
- Widened Restrictions: The US has not only targeted Chinese entities but has also imposed export restrictions on companies allegedly aiding Russia’s drone program and Iranian attacks. This includes a Chinese firm, Jiangxi Xintuo Enterprise Co, linked to supporting Russia’s drone initiatives, and a network of companies facilitating drone component supply to Iran.
China Denies Wrongdoing, Vows to Respond
China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Mao Ning, rejected the U.S. claims, calling them an attempt to “contain and suppress” Chinese companies. China threatened to take “necessary steps” to protect its interests.
The U.S. also restricted exports to five other companies accused of aiding drone production and procurement for Russia’s war in Ukraine and Iranian attacks in the Red Sea. These companies included a Chinese firm, Jiangxi Xintuo Enterprise Co, allegedly involved in supporting Russia’s drone program, and a network of companies supplying drone components to Iran. China again condemned the U.S. actions, arguing they disrupt normal economic cooperation with Russia.
