Semiconductors: China requests "clarifications" on export restrictions

China has asked the United States, Japan and the Netherlands to "

" the existence of a supposed agreement between them aimed at restricting exports of semiconductors amid technological rivalry, an official reported on Wednesday. state media.

In recent years, Washington has blacklisted Chinese companies to cut them off from the supply chains of American technologies, including the most advanced chips, and in recent weeks has tightened restrictions on the export of semiconductors.

The Netherlands, the leading producer of these components essential to the manufacture of microprocessors, took a similar step last month, while Japan plans to do the same.

China, which seeks to become self-sufficient in semiconductor design, believes the moves are aimed at maintaining US supremacy in this area.

During a meeting Monday and Tuesday at the World Trade Organization (WTO), China expressed concern over an "

”, reported the public television CCTV.

China has asked these countries to say whether such an agreement "

" between them and, if so, to "

" it to WTO members for "

".

In the name of "

", Washington announced in October 2022 new export controls to limit Beijing's purchase and manufacture of high-end chips "

".

Faced with these restrictions, China had filed a procedure with the WTO.

At a time when Washington is stepping up the blows against Beijing, the Chinese internet regulator announced on Friday that it was launching proceedings against the American technology giant Micron.

The measure must make it possible to “

” the products of the manufacturer of electronic components and to prevent possible “

” for “

”, justified the Chinese regulator.

This decision raises fears of a retaliatory measure that could be extended to other American companies in the sector.