Politics · Singapore Bureau
US Republican lawmaker seeks expanded research funding curbs on Chinese universities
A Republican lawmaker has called on the US Defense Department to expand research funding restrictions to dozens more Chinese universities, including institutions with connections to prominent American business figures.
LSN Singapore ·
The push represents an escalation in US scrutiny of academic ties with China, as Washington increasingly tightens oversight of collaborative research arrangements. The lawmaker's proposal targets universities beyond those currently subject to funding restrictions, citing national security concerns.
The move reflects growing bipartisan concern in the United States over technology transfer and intellectual property protection in academic partnerships with Chinese institutions. Policymakers have expressed worry that research collaborations could inadvertently benefit Chinese military or strategic interests.
Among the institutions reportedly under consideration are universities with established connections to Silicon Valley and other American business sectors. Such restrictions would potentially affect ongoing research projects and academic exchanges between the two countries.
The Defense Department has not immediately responded to the proposal. The development underscores deepening tension in US-China academic and research relations, a key component of bilateral engagement that has faced increasing regulatory scrutiny in recent years.