China has strongly condemned the United States’ recent semiconductor export controls, asserting that these measures disrupt market rules and the international trade order.
On Thursday, a spokesperson from the Chinese Ministry of Commerce criticized the US’s latest restrictions, stating they will create uncertainty in the semiconductor sector’s trade practices. The spokesperson emphasized that China will take necessary measures to protect its legitimate rights and interests.
The condemnation follows the US Commerce Department’s decision on Monday to add 140 Chinese companies to its “entity list.” This move imposes stricter controls on the export of semiconductor manufacturing equipment and high-bandwidth memory chips to the Chinese mainland.
In response, China’s major industry associations have called on local companies to diversify their chip supply chains. They urged firms to exercise caution when purchasing US chips, highlighting concerns over reliability and security due to the US government’s frequent changes to export control rules.
On Tuesday, four associations representing the communication, semiconductor, automobile, and internet industries issued separate statements. They argued that the unilateral actions by the US have undermined the interests of companies on both sides and significantly increased the costs within the global semiconductor supply chain.
The Internet Society of China encouraged local companies to expand cooperation with chip manufacturers from other countries and regions. The society also advocated for the use of chips produced by both local and foreign-funded enterprises within the Chinese mainland.
The China Association of Automobile Manufacturers suggested that Chinese automakers should be cautious when purchasing US chips, indicating that these products may no longer be safe and reliable.
Echoing these sentiments, the China Semiconductor Industry Association stated that the US’s actions have not only harmed Chinese and US companies but have also disrupted the global semiconductor industry’s stability.
The China Association of Communications Enterprises emphasized the need to safeguard the industry’s supply chain stability, urging local companies to mitigate risks by diversifying their sources.
