US Revokes Export Licenses for Intel, Qualcomm to Sell to Huawei, Citing National Security Concerns

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The United States has revoked licenses that permitted companies like Intel to export chips used in laptops and handsets to Huawei Technologies, a sanctioned Chinese telecoms equipment manufacturer, according to three individuals familiar with the matter. A fourth source indicated that some companies were informed on Tuesday that their licenses had been immediately revoked. While the U.S. Commerce Department confirmed the revocation of certain licenses, it did not specify the companies affected. Intel declined to comment on the matter, while Qualcomm did not respond to requests for comment, and Huawei did not provide an immediate response.

The move follows Huawei’s recent release of its first AI-enabled laptop, the MateBook X Pro, powered by Intel’s new Core Ultra 9 processor. This launch sparked criticism from Republican lawmakers, who interpreted it as a signal that the Commerce Department had authorized Intel to supply chips to Huawei.

The Commerce Department’s decision, initially reported by Reuters, comes after pressure from Republican lawmakers in Congress, advocating for tougher action against Huawei. Republican Congresswoman Elise Stefanik stated that this action would enhance U.S. national security, safeguard American innovation, and limit Communist China’s technological advancement.