Congress is preparing to vote on legislation that would restrict U.S. investments in China as part of a broader government funding bill, lawmakers announced Tuesday. The vote, expected in the coming days, reflects growing bipartisan concern over China’s role in sectors critical to U.S. national security.
This legislation follows rules finalized by the Treasury Department in October, which took effect on January 2. Those regulations already limit U.S. investments in China’s artificial intelligence, semiconductor, and quantum computing sectors due to national security threats. The new bill expands these restrictions and introduces additional measures to safeguard critical infrastructure.
One key provision in the bill requires an assessment of national security risks posed by Chinese-made consumer routers and modems. This reflects concerns that such devices could be exploited for espionage or cyberattacks. Given the prevalence of Chinese technology in consumer electronics, lawmakers are pushing for tighter scrutiny and potential countermeasures.
These legislative efforts highlight the U.S. government’s escalating strategy to limit China’s access to advanced technology and financial support from American sources. Bipartisan support has grown for curbing investments that could bolster Chinese advancements in sensitive technologies.
As tensions between the U.S. and China continue, lawmakers remain focused on protecting American technology and infrastructure from foreign threats. This latest move underscores a broader shift toward a more cautious and defensive approach to economic engagement with China.