FT Reports That Apple Is Lobbying to Buy Memory Chips From Blacklisted Chinese Company CXMT
Apple is reportedly lobbying the Trump administration to allow it to purchase memory chips from CXMT, a Chinese company. The Pentagon has blacklisted CXMT due to alleged ties with the People's Liberation Army. While not outright prohibited, the company's inclusion on the Chinese Military Company blacklist raises national security concerns. Congress is expected to strongly oppose any administration approval of Apple's purchases from CXMT. Lawmakers view such a partnership as a grave mistake that would benefit the Chinese Communist Party. Critics argue this would increase US dependence on China for critical technology supply chains. There are also warnings that allowing this deal could harm the American memory chip industry. Some believe the decision pits Apple's profit margins against national security and industry competitiveness. Tim Cook, in his new role as executive chairman, will be involved in engaging with policymakers globally. The situation highlights a potential conflict between corporate interests and national security objectives.