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The U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) announced new measures to hinder China’s ability to produce advanced semiconductors critical to military applications, artificial intelligence (AI), and advanced computing. The rules, revealed on December 4, aim to curb the People’s Republic of China’s (PRC) military modernization efforts.
The regulatory package introduces controls on 24 types of semiconductor manufacturing equipment, high-bandwidth memory (HBM), and software tools essential for producing advanced-node integrated circuits. These semiconductors are vital for AI systems, advanced weapons, and other technologies with military applications. Additionally, 140 Chinese entities, including semiconductor fabs and investment companies, have been added to the Entity List, restricting their access to U.S. technology.
“This action demonstrates the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to impeding the PRC’s ability to indigenize advanced technologies that threaten U.S. national security,” said Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo.
The BIS measures align with the United States’ strategy to counteract the PRC’s Military-Civil Fusion approach, which integrates civilian technologies into military applications. The new rules expand the jurisdiction of export controls, ensuring U.S.-origin technology cannot be exploited to bolster China’s military capabilities or repress human rights.
The announcement builds on prior actions in 2022 and 2023 that targeted high-end semiconductor technologies. By coordinating with allies, the U.S. aims to maintain its technological edge and protect national security interests.
“The PRC’s pursuit of advanced semiconductor capabilities poses a significant risk to global security,” said Assistant Secretary for Export Administration Thea D. Rozman Kendler. “Today’s rules ensure we stay ahead of evolving threats.”
In response. China announced a ban on exporting gallium, germanium, antimony, and other high-tech materials to the United States, citing their potential military applications.
The Chinese Commerce Ministry stated that the ban is aimed at safeguarding national security and countering Washington’s expanded controls on semiconductor manufacturing equipment, high-bandwidth memory chips, and related software.
Gallium and germanium are essential for manufacturing semiconductors, optical devices, and other high-performance technologies, while antimony has applications in flame retardants, batteries, and alloys.
The announcement also coincides with heightened trade tensions, as President-elect Donald Trump has threatened to impose higher tariffs on Chinese imports.
