The Trump administration has shelved several key technology restrictions targeting China ahead of a planned April summit between President Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping, according to sources familiar with the matter.
The paused measures reportedly include a ban on China Telecom’s US operations, restrictions on the sale of Chinese equipment used in US data centers, and proposed bans on routers made by TP-Link. Other measures on hold would have targeted the US operations of China Unicom and China Mobile, as well as the sale of certain Chinese electric trucks and buses in the US.
The decision follows a trade truce reached in October between Washington and Beijing, aimed at easing tensions after years of tariff battles and technology disputes. As part of that understanding, China agreed to delay export restrictions on rare-earth minerals, which are critical for global tech manufacturing.
The US Commerce Department defended its approach, stating it continues to address national security risks linked to foreign technology. However, critics argue that pausing the restrictions could leave US data centers and telecom infrastructure vulnerable, especially as AI-related infrastructure expands rapidly.
Former Trump administration official Matt Pottinger warned that easing controls could give Beijing new leverage over US digital infrastructure. Meanwhile, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer accused the administration of compromising national security in pursuit of improved relations with China.
Supporters of the pause say the move reflects an effort to stabilize ties before high-level talks. Trade experts note that China has made clear it views further export controls as hostile actions that could undermine negotiations.
Sources indicated that the shelved measures could be revived if relations deteriorate after the upcoming summit. For now, the administration appears focused on maintaining diplomatic space ahead of what could be a pivotal meeting between the world’s two largest economies.
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