China has strongly criticized the United States' decision to revoke export control exemptions for three major semiconductor manufacturers operating within its borders, signaling renewed tensions in global tech trade relations.
The Chinese Ministry of Commerce responded Saturday to Friday's U.S. Department of Commerce announcement removing Intel Semiconductor (Dalian), Samsung China Semiconductor, and SK Hynix Semiconductor (China) from the Validated End-User (VEU) list. This authorization previously allowed streamlined exports of certain advanced technologies to pre-approved entities.
A ministry spokesperson emphasized the semiconductor industry's global interdependence, stating: "This unilateral action weaponizes trade policies and threatens the stability of worldwide semiconductor supply chains." The statement warned of potential disruptions affecting everything from consumer electronics to automotive manufacturing.
Analysts suggest the move could particularly impact memory chip production, where South Korean firms Samsung and SK Hynix hold significant market share. The affected Dalian-based Intel facility specializes in 3D NAND flash memory chips used in data storage.
The ministry urged immediate reversal of the decision while affirming China's commitment to "protect domestic enterprises' legitimate rights" through unspecified measures. This development comes as multiple nations race to secure semiconductor supplies amid global chip shortages.
