US steps up export controls on advanced tech goods

The United States announced on Thursday tighter export controls on critical technologies like quantum computing and semiconductor manufacturing goods, targeting access by adversaries like China.

The Commerce Department said it is implementing worldwide export curbs on specific types of items such as quantum computers and machines needed to make advanced semiconductor devices – with exceptions made for countries that have similar measures such as Japan.

“As critical technologies with military applications continue to emerge and evolve, there is an increased need to regulate their movement to ensure these items are not used for purposes contrary to US national security or foreign policy,” the Commerce Department said in a statement.

Washington has in recent years unveiled restrictions on the export of advanced chips to China, including those used in the development of artificial intelligence.

In August last year, President Joe Biden issued an executive order aimed at restricting US investment in sensitive hi-tech areas in China, like quantum computing.