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US Plans to Ban Chinese AI Hardware Imports

WireByte Staff · August 5, 2026

The US is drafting a ban on imports of new Chinese data centre components, including optical transceivers, which could hit confidence in China's AI hardware stocks. The move threatens to disrupt the global data centre market, with China's export-dependent component makers already reeling from a recent sell-off.

Key points

  • The US Trump administration is drafting a ban on imports of new Chinese data centre components, including optical transceivers.
  • The ban targets export-dependent Chinese companies, such as Zhongji Innolight, Eoptolink Technology, and Suzhou TFC Optical Communications.
  • Zhongji Innolight shares fell 8% in both Shanghai and Hong Kong in early trading, after the news was reported by Reuters.
  • The Chinese optical parts maker generated 62% of its revenue from the US in the first quarter.
  • The ban could disrupt the global data centre market and further shake confidence in China's AI hardware stocks.

The US move to ban imports of new Chinese data centre components has sent shockwaves through the global tech industry. The ban targets optical transceivers, which are crucial for data centres to function efficiently. Export-dependent Chinese companies, such as Zhongji Innolight, Eoptolink Technology, and Suzhou TFC Optical Communications, are likely to be severely impacted by the ban.

The Chinese government has yet to comment on the US move, but officials are expected to respond in the coming days. The ban is part of a broader effort by the US to restrict Chinese access to the global data centre market.

The impact of the ban is likely to be felt across the global data centre market, with Chinese companies facing significant challenges in maintaining their market share. The move is also expected to further shake confidence in China's AI hardware stocks, which have already been hit by a recent sell-off.

Sources

WireByte Staff — Editorial Team

The WireByte editorial team synthesises technology news from multiple primary sources, verifies the facts, and links every source. Articles are produced with AI assistance and reviewed under our editorial policy.