Reuters reported on Wednesday (December 18th) that US lawmakers announced on Tuesday evening that they will vote on a bill restricting US investment in China in the coming days. This is part of a bill to provide funding for government operations until mid March next year.

(Screenshot source: Reuters)

In October this year, the US Treasury Department finalized rules that will take effect on January 2 next year, restricting US investment in artificial intelligence and other technology fields that may threaten US national security in China.

Reuters reported that the bill extends these restrictions and includes other provisions addressing China's concerns, including a requirement to study the national security risks posed by Chinese made home routers and modems, and a requirement to review real estate purchased by China near other national security sensitive locations.

The Chinese Embassy in the United States did not immediately comment on this news.

The bill will also require the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to publish a list of all entities holding FCC licenses or authorizations and owned by foreign hostile governments, including China, to ensure that the commission "knows when telecommunications and technology companies have contact with foreign adversaries.

US lawmakers criticize major index providers for investing billions of dollars from American investors in stocks of Chinese companies; The United States believes that these companies are promoting the development of the Chinese military.

The regulations and legislation of the US Treasury Department cover semiconductors and microelectronics, quantum information technology, and certain artificial intelligence systems, aimed at preventing investment in Chinese technology such as cutting-edge code breaking computer systems or next-generation fighter jets.

Rosa DeLauro, the Democratic leader of the Appropriation Committee of the US House of Representatives, said: "For many years, I have seen that the US dollar and intellectual property rights have promoted the technology and capabilities of the CPC... This legislation is based on the regulations implemented by the Biden government this year, and has laid the foundation for the two parties to continue their efforts to protect and rebuild our key national capabilities."

Reuters reported that foreign legislation covers the technologies listed in the Treasury Department's order and adds other artificial intelligence models using some semiconductors, AI systems designed specifically for military or government surveillance end uses, hypersonic systems, and other export control technologies.