U.S. considers banning key exports to Chinese chipmaker SMIC

The Wall Street Journal reported on Thursday that US officials are contemplating debating a Defense Department proposal this month to fix regulatory gaps that have allowed Chinese chipmaker SMIC to purchase crucial US technology. According to the Journal, some Commerce Department officials are attempting to obstruct the Defense Department's request, citing sources familiar with the situation.

Due to its alleged links to China's military, Semiconductor Production International Corporation (SMIC) was put to a US blacklist last year, denying it access to advanced manufacturing equipment from US vendors. The Wall Street Journal reported on Thursday that US officials are contemplating debating a Defense Department proposal this month to fix regulatory gaps that have allowed Chinese chipmaker SMIC to purchase crucial US technology.