China bars Micron chips following failed cyber security probe

The Cyberspace Administration of China has banned products of US chipmaker Micron Technology as they threaten China’s national cybersecurity. Earlier, Chinese authorities inspected chipmaker Micron, fearing its activities threaten national security. The company has potential problems with network security, according to an audit by China's cyberspace regulator. Ranked in the top three along with South Korea's Samsung and Hynix, Micron is one of the world's leading chipmakers. The company's products include Dram memory chips. Earlier, US officials said they found China's ban on Micron products unjustified. The White House says the restrictions contradict Beijing's claims that its markets are open and comply with regulations. The US administration noted that it prepared a joint symmetrical response with key allies and partners to leverage the situation. In late April 2023, the Financial Times reported that US authorities called on South Korea to limit the supply of semiconductors to China in the case of a ban on Micron activities in the country. In addition, Washington urged Seoul to influence the largest chip suppliers, Samsung and Hynix, to reduce their sales to China. In October 2022, the US limited 28 Chinese technology companies from accessing semiconductor chips made using US technology. All international companies that use US semiconductor technology are subject to these restrictions.