As tensions rise amidst increasing sanctions on tech imports from the US and its allies, China has introduced stringent measures in retaliation. The latest guidelines announced by China effectively prohibit the use of Intel and AMD products in computers operating within government networks and systems.
As per a report by the Financial Times on Sunday, China has revealed new guidelines aimed at gradually eliminating U.S. microprocessors from government PCs and servers. Additionally, the directive seeks to sideline Microsoft’s Windows operating system and foreign-made database software in favor of domestic alternatives.
Government agencies above the township level have reportedly been instructed to prioritize the adoption of “safe and reliable” processors and operating systems in their procurement processes, according to the report.
In late December, China’s industry ministry released a statement listing CPUs, operating systems, and centralized databases considered “safe and reliable” for a three-year period, all sourced from Chinese companies, Reuters investigations have confirmed.
Requests for comments from the State Council Information Office, responsible for media queries for China’s cabinet, remain unanswered. Similarly, both Intel and AMD have not immediately responded to Reuters’ requests for comment.
Amidst the backdrop of the Biden administration’s 2022 CHIPS and Science Act, which outlines efforts to enhance domestic semiconductor production and diminish reliance on China and Taiwan, this latest move by China takes on added significance. The act, aimed at fortifying US semiconductors, provides financial incentives for domestic production, including subsidies for the manufacturing of advanced chips.