The US Commerce Department has clarified that the use of Huawei's Ascend AI chips, regardless of location, contravenes US export controls. This move intensifies Washington's campaign to slow China's technological progress, specifically targeting Huawei's advancements in artificial intelligence. The guidance aims to prevent the circumvention of existing restrictions by entities using the chips outside of China.
The ruling has significant implications for companies worldwide. Businesses integrating Huawei's Ascend chips into their systems, even if based outside the US, now risk violating US regulations. This could force a re-evaluation of technology supply chains and potentially disrupt AI development projects relying on Huawei's hardware. The impact extends beyond Huawei, signalling a broader effort to control the global distribution and application of advanced technologies developed by Chinese firms.
Industry analysts suggest this action could further strain US-China relations and accelerate the push for technological self-sufficiency within China. It also raises questions about the extent to which the US can exert its export control laws on global activities and the potential for retaliatory measures from China.
