Already a subscriber? Make sure to log into your account before viewing this content. You can access your account by hitting the “login” button on the top right corner. Still unable to see the content after signing in? Make sure your card on file is up-to-date.

The United States has announced the addition of four Chinese companies to an export blacklist, citing their efforts to acquire artificial intelligence chips for China’s military.

According to Kevin Kurland from the Commerce Department during a US Senate subcommittee hearing, these firms have been implicated in activities aimed at supporting China’s military modernization programs, particularly in the realm of military intelligence. The blacklisting involves a total of 11 entities, with these four specifically recognized for their attempts to procure US technology in aid of China’s military advancements.

Identified companies include LINKZOL (Beijing) Technology Co, Xi’an Like Innovative Information Technology Co, Beijing Anwise Technology Co, and SITONHOLY (Tianjin) Co. This action necessitates that any US suppliers seeking to transact with these entities must first obtain a license, which is expected to be denied.

The move has sparked a strong reaction from China, with foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning accusing the US of using the list to unjustly contain and suppress Chinese corporations. Mao urged the US to cease politicizing trade and technology matters, emphasizing China’s determination to protect its interests and rights.