China Bans The Use Of Intel & AMD Processors In Government Computers

As per new Chinese guidelines, the use of Intel & AMD processors in government computers and servers has been banned. In addition, the new rules also blocked Microsoft Windows and foreign database products in favor of domestic solutions. It marks a significant move in the long-running tech trade war between both countries.

China Introduces New Guidelines Restricting Use Of Intel & AMD Processors

According to the latest Chinese guidelines, government agencies should use “safe and reliable” domestic substitutes for AMD and Intel chips. The list includes 18 approved processors. It includes chips from Huawei and the state-backed company Phytium both of which are banned in the US.

Sources claim that this new set of rules was introduced in December. However, China quietly implemented it recently. It would not be wrong to say that the new guidelines will have a significant impact on Intel and AMD. According to the FT, China accounted for 27% of Intel’s $54 billion in sales last year and 15% of AMD’s revenue of $23 billion. However, we still don’t know how many chips are used in government versus the private sector in China.

It is claimed to be China’s most aggressive move against the US-built technology. Last year, Beijing banned domestic firms from using Micron chips in paramount infrastructure. Meanwhile, the US prohibited a wide range of Chinese companies including chip manufacturers and aerospace firms. The Biden administration also blocked US companies for instnace, NVIDIA from selling AI and other chips to China. The tech war between China and the US has been taking twists day by day. So, let’s see what comes next.

The US, Japan, and the Netherlands have conquered the manufacturing industry of cutting-edge processors. The nations recently decided to constrict export controls on lithography machines from ASL, Nikon, and Tokyo Electron. On the other hand, Chinese companies, including Baidu, Huawei, Xiaomi, and Oppo have already started creating their own semiconductors. It seems as if they are preparing for a future wherein they can import chips from the US and other countries.