The Chinese Ministry of Commerce announced on Saturday the launch of a counter-discrimination investigation into U.S. measures targeting the integrated circuits sector. The decision, effective immediately, marks a new episode in the technological and trade escalation between the world’s two largest economies.
Legal basis for the investigation
According to the official statement, the ministry has gathered preliminary evidence that U.S. restrictions constitute prohibited or discriminatory restrictive measures, in violation of China’s Foreign Trade Law.
The investigation will proceed for three months, with the possibility of extension under special circumstances. Depending on the findings, Beijing reserves the right to adopt proportional countermeasures.
Background: Years of U.S. restrictions
A ministry spokesperson recalled that, in recent years, Washington has implemented a series of restrictions against China in the semiconductor sector:
- Section 301 investigations and the imposition of additional tariffs since 2018.
- Export controls from 2022, limiting the shipment of products, manufacturing equipment, and the participation of U.S. citizens in Chinese semiconductor projects.
- Restrictions stemming from the CHIPS and Science Act, which condition investments in China by companies benefiting from U.S. grants.
- In May 2025, new measures banned the use in the U.S. of Chinese advanced circuits like Huawei Ascend processors and restricted the use of U.S. AI chips in training Chinese models.
China denounces discrimination and global threats
The spokesperson was firm: these policies “represent an attempt to contain and suppress the development of Chinese tech industries, such as advanced computing chips and artificial intelligence”.
According to Beijing, the measures not only harm Chinese companies but also “severely undermine the stability of global semiconductor supply and industrial chains”.
A new chapter in the tech war
The dispute is part of the competition for leadership in the chip and AI industries, seen as strategic by both countries.
- The U.S. aims to maintain its lead by limiting China’s access to cutting-edge technologies.
- China, on the other hand, is ramping up investments in domestic chip production and denounces what it calls discriminatory protectionism.
The semiconductor sector, crucial for everything from smartphones to supercomputing and advanced weapons, has become the central battlefield of this rivalry.
What’s next
The investigation will cover all tariffs, bans, official letters, and regulations since 2018, and will assess whether these measures comply with internationally recognized fair trade principles.
If discrimination is confirmed, China could respond with trade retaliations or new restrictions on U.S. companies operating in its market.
The case’s developments will be closely monitored not only in Beijing and Washington but also by Europe, Taiwan, South Korea, and Japan, whose semiconductor manufacturers depend on the stability of the global value chain.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a counter-discrimination investigation mean in this context?
It’s a legal process under China’s Foreign Trade Law to determine whether another country’s measures impose unfair or unequal restrictions on its companies.
Which U.S. measures are being investigated?
From additional Section 301 tariffs (2018) to the latest restrictions in May 2025 on AI chips and Huawei processors.
What could be the consequences?
If discrimination is confirmed, China could implement countermeasures such as tariffs, investment restrictions, or limitations on U.S. companies in its market.
Why is this important for the rest of the world?
Because semiconductors are essential to the global digital economy. Any escalation in this tech war could cause supply disruptions and impact industries like automotive, consumer electronics, and AI.
via: english.news.cn