SMIC, which has been under US trade restrictions since 2020 over alleged links to China’s military, has previously denied any connection to the country’s defence sector.
'China's top chipmaker SMIC supplied chip tech to Iran,' claims US: Reports
China’s largest chipmaker, Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corporation (SMIC), has allegedly provided chipmaking technology to Iran’s military, according to senior officials from the administration of US President Donald Trump. The claims could add fresh strain to already tense ties between the US and China. Moreover, the development comes amid the ongoing US-Israel conflict with Iran, raising concerns about China’s position in the region. However, China has not openly supported any side in the conflict so far.
The US officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity, did not confirm whether the equipment included US-origin technology. If it did, such transfers could potentially violate US sanctions on Iran. The officials said the supplies began around a year ago and may still be ongoing. They also indicated that the cooperation likely included technical training related to semiconductor technology.
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SMIC, which has been under US trade restrictions since 2020 over alleged links to China’s military, has previously denied any connection to the country’s defence sector. The Chinese government has also maintained that its trade with Iran is legitimate and within international norms.
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There was no immediate response from SMIC, the Chinese Embassy in Washington, or representatives of Iran at the United Nations regarding the allegations.
Meanwhile, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has called for peace talks, urging all parties involved to de-escalate tensions in the region.
If confirmed, the allegations could further escalate friction between the United States and China, especially as Washington continues efforts to limit Beijing’s access to advanced semiconductor technologies.
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