Republican lawmakers urge Biden administration to strengthen export control regulations on advanced computing chips to China

Introduction

Two senior Republican members of the United States House of Representatives have written a letter to National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, calling on the Biden administration to enhance the enforcement of export controls relating to advanced computing chips and their associated manufacturing tools being transferred to China.

Calls for revised regulations

Representatives Michael McCaul and Mike Gallagher, who hold leadership positions in the House Foreign Affairs Committee and a select committee on China, have highlighted the recent technological advancements made by leading Chinese chip manufacturer Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corp (SMIC) as evidence that the current regulations introduced approximately a year ago need to be revised. They argue that there are deficiencies and "loopholes" in the existing rules that need to be addressed.

Huawei's defiance

The lawmakers' letter comes in response to the unveiling of Huawei Technologies' Mate 60 Pro smartphone, which incorporates advanced chips manufactured by SMIC. This has taken place despite U.S. sanctions.

Concerns over bureaucratic system

In their letter, McCaul and Gallagher criticize the "inert and opaque bureaucratic system" that they claim lacks understanding of China's industrial strategy, military objectives, and technological capabilities. They further accuse the system of lacking the determination to take effective action against violations.

Demands for action

The legislators have called on the Biden administration to modernize the regulations and swiftly address the Huawei and SMIC situation. They have also urged the administration to deny Chinese firms access to powerful artificial intelligence chips through cloud computing services.

Enforcement of existing regulations

Additionally, McCaul and Gallagher emphasize the importance of enforcing the administration's existing regulations that restrict Chinese enterprises, especially those that hinder U.S. officials from ensuring compliance with U.S. export regulations.