US slaps new restriction on high-tech export to China
Sunday, 17 June 2007
WASHINGTON, June 16 (AFP): The United States yesterday slapped new restrictions of high-technology exports to China and moved to create a pool of so-called "trusted customers" within the Chinese business community that will be rewarded for compliance with US guidelines.
The measures, announced by the Commerce Department, came amid growing concern in the administration and Congress that China is using is booming trade with the United States to accelerate a massive military buildup that might undercut US interests in Asia.
The updated export control list that has been under consideration for more than a year covers a total of 20 product categories ranging from avionics to computer software.
Controls were also put on aircraft and aircraft engines, inertial navigation systems, lasers, depleted uranium, underwater cameras and propulsion systems, certain composite materials, and some telecommunications equipment for space communications or air defence.
Export of such equipment which has potential military applications, or so-called dual-use technology, requires a US government licence.
The list that expressly targets products not widely available on world markets was compiled jointly by the departments of commerce, defence and state.
"The steps we are taking today are good for national security, and for American exporters and jobs," Commerce Secretary Carlos Gutierrez said in a statement.
At the same time, the US government is introducing a so-called "validated end-user" programme, under which certain "trusted customers" in China will be able to receive dual-use items without individual export licences if they establish their bona fides in Washington.
The measures, announced by the Commerce Department, came amid growing concern in the administration and Congress that China is using is booming trade with the United States to accelerate a massive military buildup that might undercut US interests in Asia.
The updated export control list that has been under consideration for more than a year covers a total of 20 product categories ranging from avionics to computer software.
Controls were also put on aircraft and aircraft engines, inertial navigation systems, lasers, depleted uranium, underwater cameras and propulsion systems, certain composite materials, and some telecommunications equipment for space communications or air defence.
Export of such equipment which has potential military applications, or so-called dual-use technology, requires a US government licence.
The list that expressly targets products not widely available on world markets was compiled jointly by the departments of commerce, defence and state.
"The steps we are taking today are good for national security, and for American exporters and jobs," Commerce Secretary Carlos Gutierrez said in a statement.
At the same time, the US government is introducing a so-called "validated end-user" programme, under which certain "trusted customers" in China will be able to receive dual-use items without individual export licences if they establish their bona fides in Washington.