Beijing accuses Washington of using espionage claims to justify tech restrictions

Chinese officials on Thursday characterized U.S. espionage accusations against Beijing as pretexts designed to justify broad technology sanctions that disproportionately target Chinese companies and research institutions.

The rebuke came after reports surfaced regarding alleged Chinese intelligence efforts directed at Nvidia Chief Executive Jensen Huang. Beijing's Foreign Ministry and other government spokespersons dismissed the claims as fabricated or exaggerated, arguing they represent part of a coordinated campaign to legitimize trade barriers and export controls.

China's position reflects deepening tensions between Washington and Beijing over technology competition, particularly in semiconductors and artificial intelligence. Chinese officials contend that the U.S. strategy extends beyond legitimate security concerns to encompass economic protectionism disguised as counterintelligence operations.

The dispute underscores escalating technological rivalry between the world's two largest economies, with both nations accusing each other of unfair practices. U.S. restrictions on advanced chip exports to China have become increasingly stringent over recent years, while Beijing maintains these measures contravene international trade principles.

The confrontation carries implications for global technology supply chains and international business operations, particularly for multinational firms with operations across both nations.