Lisa Su, AMD’s CEO, visiting China sends a clear message: the company wants to deepen its presence and investments in the country just as the technological relationship between Washington and Beijing becomes more strained—and simultaneously seeks new ways to cooperate—around artificial intelligence and semiconductors.
According to reports from Asian media, Su has recently met with key players in China’s ecosystem, engaging in an agenda that combines industry, diplomacy, and strategic messaging. On one hand, she visited Lenovo in Beijing and spoke with its president, Yang Yuanqing, at a time when the PC industry is experiencing a new wave of innovation centered on the concept of “AI PCs” (devices with locally-embedded AI capabilities). On the other hand, AMD’s CEO held high-level institutional meetings that reinforce the idea of continuity: China remains a priority market for the company, despite regulatory and geopolitical noise.
The subtext: investment, trust, and product access
In public discourse, the most emphasized word is “cooperation.” But beneath the surface, the real issues are market access, supply continuity, and regulatory stability—especially in a sector where political shifts can redefine strategic plans from quarter to quarter.
One topic gaining particular attention in Chinese media is AMD’s positioning within the new landscape of U.S. controls on exporting advanced technology. Simultaneously with Su’s visit, references have circulated about tax conditions or compliance mechanisms needed to operate certain products within China’s market—an indication of the times: it’s not just about marketing products, but also about how and under what regulatory framework they are sold.
The overall picture sums up 2025 well: chip executives trying to balance between two worlds. If China is cut out, the company loses volume, partners, and market traction. But ignoring U.S. restrictions risks licenses, reputation, and global supply chains.
A particularly sensitive political moment
Su’s visit comes at a time when U.S. debates about what can be sold to China and under what conditions are front and center again, especially concerning accelerators and AI-focused systems. American media also discusses approaches like tariffs, revenue sharing, or specific export frameworks tied to certain chip exports—fueling the perception that the “manual” is changing: control is no longer just about banning or permitting but also about economic conditioning.
In this context, AMD’s strategy is twofold: to emphasize long-term commitment to the Chinese market and to proceed cautiously, avoiding regulatory escalations that could impact products, partners, and planning.
Lenovo, AI PCs, and scalable business
The meeting with Lenovo is also a clear business move. After years of ups and downs, the PC market is once again relevant—due to a specific reason: many companies want effective AI at the workplace without always relying on the cloud. This opens opportunities for processors with acceleration and AI-focused capabilities—a segment where AMD is competing strongly.
Moreover, Lenovo isn’t just a major customer; it’s also a key barometer of both the Chinese and global markets for consumer and enterprise segments. In an environment where growth is unevenly distributed, strengthening alliances with scalable manufacturers can be the difference between growth and mere survival.
Final takeaway: it’s not just a trip; it’s a signal
Beyond the photos and headlines, what matters is the signal AMD is sending: it does not want China to be viewed as a “tactical market” but as a structural one, even amid an accelerated reindustrialization, a quest for self-sufficiency, and open rivalry for AI supremacy.
At the same time, the visit exposes an uncomfortable reality: the chip business can no longer be explained solely by products and roadmaps. It now involves corporate diplomacy, ecosystem access, regulatory compliance, and an increasingly sophisticated ability to navigate between blocs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it important for AMD to increase investment in China?
Because China remains a huge market for PCs, data centers, and AI adoption, and it also hosts a critical portion of the manufacturing ecosystem and tech partners.
How do U.S. restrictions impact AMD and other chip companies?
They can limit what products are sold, to whom, and under what conditions, affecting revenue, inventory planning, and launch strategies.
What role does Lenovo play in this story?
Lenovo is a globally scaled partner and a key player in China; strengthening this relationship helps AMD position itself in the ongoing PC refresh cycle driven by AI functionalities.
Does this mean the U.S. and China are “collaborating” more on chips?
Not exactly. It more reflects that the sector is seeking operation spaces within a tense framework: agreements and sales are possible, but come with limits, licenses, and rapidly evolving conditions.