US Chip Maker Micron Faces Cybersecurity Probe From China Amid Escalating Tech Tensions
A cybersecurity probe launched by China's Cyberspace Administration into US memory chip maker Micron Technology has sparked concerns over the escalating tensions between Washington and Beijing in the semiconductor industry.
The probe, which was announced on Friday, aims to review products sold by Micron in China, with the administration citing a need to ensure the security of key information infrastructure supply chains. The move appears to be a retaliation against new restrictions imposed by US allies in Asia and Europe, including Japan, which has restricted the export of advanced chip manufacturing equipment to countries including China.
The US has banned Chinese companies from buying advanced chips and chipmaking equipment without a license, while the Netherlands has also unveiled new restrictions on overseas sales of semiconductor technology. These measures are part of Washington's efforts to curb Beijing's growing influence in the global semiconductor industry and limit its ability to develop advanced technologies that could be used for military purposes.
Micron has warned of such risks in an earlier filing, stating that the Chinese government may restrict it from participating in the China market or prevent it from competing effectively with Chinese companies. The company has also expressed concerns over Beijing's growing pressure on foreign companies to bring them into line with its agenda.
The escalating tensions between Washington and Beijing have significant implications for the global semiconductor industry, which is critical to many countries' economic growth and security. As Beijing seeks to woo foreign investments and boost growth and job creation, it must navigate a complex web of regulatory pressures and competing interests in the industry.
Shares in Micron sank 4.4% on Wall Street following the news, marking the biggest drop in more than three months. The company derives over 10% of its revenue from China, making it a crucial target for Beijing's efforts to restrict US influence in the region.
The probe into Micron Technology highlights the growing tensions between Washington and Beijing in the semiconductor industry, as both sides seek to assert their influence and protect their interests.
A cybersecurity probe launched by China's Cyberspace Administration into US memory chip maker Micron Technology has sparked concerns over the escalating tensions between Washington and Beijing in the semiconductor industry.
The probe, which was announced on Friday, aims to review products sold by Micron in China, with the administration citing a need to ensure the security of key information infrastructure supply chains. The move appears to be a retaliation against new restrictions imposed by US allies in Asia and Europe, including Japan, which has restricted the export of advanced chip manufacturing equipment to countries including China.
The US has banned Chinese companies from buying advanced chips and chipmaking equipment without a license, while the Netherlands has also unveiled new restrictions on overseas sales of semiconductor technology. These measures are part of Washington's efforts to curb Beijing's growing influence in the global semiconductor industry and limit its ability to develop advanced technologies that could be used for military purposes.
Micron has warned of such risks in an earlier filing, stating that the Chinese government may restrict it from participating in the China market or prevent it from competing effectively with Chinese companies. The company has also expressed concerns over Beijing's growing pressure on foreign companies to bring them into line with its agenda.
The escalating tensions between Washington and Beijing have significant implications for the global semiconductor industry, which is critical to many countries' economic growth and security. As Beijing seeks to woo foreign investments and boost growth and job creation, it must navigate a complex web of regulatory pressures and competing interests in the industry.
Shares in Micron sank 4.4% on Wall Street following the news, marking the biggest drop in more than three months. The company derives over 10% of its revenue from China, making it a crucial target for Beijing's efforts to restrict US influence in the region.
The probe into Micron Technology highlights the growing tensions between Washington and Beijing in the semiconductor industry, as both sides seek to assert their influence and protect their interests.