China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning described the inspection of Micron, a U.S. chipmaker, and the subsequent ban on purchases by national critical information infrastructure operators as a necessary national security action. She spoke during a briefing and emphasized that the move is intended to protect the security of China’s information networks. She added that the audit aims to address potential cybersecurity risks and to safeguard critical infrastructure from emerging threats.
According to Ning, this inspection and the resulting policy are essential steps to uphold national security and protect important information systems from vulnerabilities. The remarks came as part of a broader explanation of why the government is scrutinizing the compliance of foreign technology with Chinese cybersecurity standards.
On May 21, China’s State Cyberspace Office announced a ban preventing national critical information infrastructure operators from purchasing Micron products. Reuters reported that U.S. authorities viewed the measure as unfounded and expressed opposition to the restrictions. U.S. officials said they would consult with key allies and partners to address what they described as breaches in the Chinese market, though it remains unclear what exactly is meant by that statement. Analysts have noted that the move is part of a broader pattern of technology security concerns and trade frictions between the two countries, with implications for global supply chains and international standards for cybersecurity.
Industry observers point out that China continues to tighten security reviews around foreign technology, citing aims to reduce exposure to potential cyber threats and to ensure that critical systems operate within trusted, transparent supply chains. The Micron situation highlights ongoing tensions over control of advanced semiconductors and the governance of digital infrastructure in a high-stakes geopolitical environment. As the story unfolds, both sides have signaled readiness to engage in further dialogue, while maintaining divergent positions on the role of foreign technology in national security.
Experts note that for global tech vendors, the episode underscores the importance of aligning product security practices with evolving regulatory requirements in major markets. The outcome may influence ongoing discussions about data localization, cybersecurity governance, and the ways in which governments evaluate risks associated with foreign equipment and software. In this climate, ongoing monitoring of policy developments and regulatory responses will be crucial for international business strategy and risk management across the technology sector.