The Chinese government has sharply criticized the latest US export controls on semiconductors, which Washington claims are intended to prevent Beijing from developing advanced weapons and artificial intelligence (AI) systems.

The Biden administration announced new restrictions, including limits on the sale of 24 types of semiconductor-manufacturing equipment and access to American technology for several Chinese firms. US officials said the measures aim to curb China’s progress in developing AI capabilities for military use and to weaken its domestic semiconductor sector, which poses a national security risk to the US and its allies.

Dive deeper

China’s Commerce Ministry denounced the move, accusing the US of “abuse” of export controls and harming global supply chain stability.

“The US preaches one thing while practicing another, excessively broadening the concept of national security, abusing export control measures, and engaging in unilateral bullying actions. China firmly opposes such actions,” the Ministry said in a statement.

In retaliation, Beijing banned the export of several critical materials, including gallium, germanium, and antimony, vital for semiconductor and electric vehicle battery production. According to the Chinese Commerce Ministry, these materials are restricted due to their potential military applications. Previously, companies could apply for special permits to export these materials, but this exception has now been removed.

The escalating tech rivalry reflects broader tensions between the world’s two largest economies, particularly concerning military advancements.

Read next: Largest Chinese chipmaker to up capacity following record revenue