Investing.com -- The Trump administration, represented by Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, is soliciting assistance from corporations and foreign governments to halt China’s acquisition of U.S. semiconductor chips. The administration accuses Chinese AI firm DeepSeek of misusing American chips, with Lutnick stating that these chips have been redirected to China in exchange for money.
Lutnick voiced his concerns at a Bureau of Industry and Security conference on Tuesday, suggesting that such transactions aid those against the American way of life. He indicated that the amount of money involved varies, but the intent remains detrimental to U.S. interests.
The administration is considering incorporating export controls into trade agreements, according to Lutnick. This move would force countries to decide if they align with American values of freedom and liberty or if they prioritize financial gains. He emphasized the gravity of this choice, equating it to selling one’s soul to those who mean harm to the U.S.
Lutnick also highlighted the potential consequences of losing access to Taiwanese chips, suggesting that the U.S. automotive industry would be severely impacted.
The Commerce Secretary further outlined the Trump administration’s efforts to bolster domestic production of various goods, including aluminum, steel, and semiconductor chips. He underscored the need to manufacture and safeguard drones and to establish data centers.
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