US imposes new restrictions on AI chip exports worldwide

The U.S. government has announced new restrictions on the export of artificial intelligence chips and technology. These regulations will limit AI chip exports to most countries while allowing unlimited access for close allies. Exports to China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea remain blocked. The rules categorize countries into three tiers, with 18 nations, including Japan and the UK, largely exempt. Other countries will face caps, while those under arms embargoes will be completely barred from receiving U.S. technology. Major cloud providers can seek global authorizations for data centers under strict conditions. Industry leaders have criticized the regulations, calling them excessive and potentially harmful to U.S. competitiveness. The rules will take effect in 120 days, allowing the incoming Trump administration time to review them.