US imposes new restrictions on AI chip exports to limit access for adversaries

The US government announced new restrictions on AI chip exports, aiming to limit access for China and other adversaries while allowing more access for allies. The rules will cap exports to most countries and maintain a block on China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea. The regulations will take effect in 120 days and impose licensing requirements on certain advanced chips. Major cloud providers like Microsoft and Google can seek global authorizations to build data centers without needing export licenses, provided they meet strict conditions. The new rules divide countries into three tiers, with 18 allies exempt from restrictions. Other nations face caps, while adversaries are completely barred from receiving technology. Industry leaders have criticized the regulations as excessive and potentially harmful to US competitiveness.