How Export Controls, Sanctions Restricted Chinese Access to US Tech in 2020

January 21, 2021 | BY

Vincent Chow

Sanctions and export controls remained the primary tools of the Trump administration for restricting Chinese entities' access to U.S. technology. The administration has fine-tuned export controls to extend U.S. jurisdiction to more transactions, a primary focus being Chinese companies with military ties due to China's state policy of military-civilian fusion.

                                                   (AP Photo/Susan Walsh, File)

In its last year in office, the Trump administration's efforts to prevent Chinese companies from accessing U.S. technologies reached new heights. The U.S. government deployed trade and sanctions tools including new licensing requirements and various blacklists that both heightened scrutiny of Chinese entities and increased the compliance burden of foreign entities exporting to China.

The combination of these policy tools can really be seen as a form of economic warfare, said Wendy Wysong, Hong Kong managing partner at Steptoe & Johnson. "The U.S. government is really using every weapon it has in that arena in very creative and innovative ways, really beyond their original purpose and traditional use."

This premium content is reserved for
China Law & Practice Subscribers.

  • A database of over 3,000 essential documents including key PRC legislation translated into English
  • A choice of newsletters to alert you to changes affecting your business including sector specific updates
  • Premium access to the mobile optimized site for timely analysis that guides you through China's ever-changing business environment
For enterprise-wide or corporate enquiries, please contact our experienced Sales Professionals at +44 (0)203 868 7546 or [email protected]