Fresh Chinese data-center hardware imports face imminent US security clampdown

Security worries trigger US plan to block new Chinese data-center gear

According to НВ — Техно: Washington is moving to stop new models of Chinese optical transceivers used in data centers from entering the country. The Trump administration and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) are behind the proposed import ban, driven by fears that the components could be exploited to steal data, plant malware, or disrupt critical infrastructure. It is the latest step in a broader US push to shrink China's footprint in sensitive technology supply chains.

The FCC is currently drafting a rule to restrict these imports, with a possible release before the end of the year. However, the document could still be altered or abandoned entirely. Optical transceivers are crucial for moving data across fiber-optic cables inside data centers, making them essential for American tech firms racing to build AI-ready facilities. Zhongji Innolight, one of the world's largest transceiver makers, is among the Chinese suppliers likely to be affected. Last month, the FCC also moved to prohibit the use of advanced humanoid robots from China, underscoring a broader US policy shift against Chinese technology.

Beijing pushes back against the proposed restrictions

China's embassy in Washington has already responded, urging the US to 'listen to the voice of business communities in both countries' and to 'stop accusing Chinese companies and threatening sanctions.' The embassy called such accusations and threats unacceptable and warned that 'if China's interests are substantially harmed, we will take all necessary measures.' US officials point to the Huawei case as a cautionary tale: equipment from the Chinese firm became widespread across the US, and removing it has proven difficult. That history reinforces concerns that a transceiver ban could carry major consequences for the market and for US-China tech relations.

Neither the White House nor the FCC has commented on the Reuters report. For American tech companies, a ban could create serious supply-chain problems just as demand for data-center components is surging. Broader tensions between Washington and Beijing continue to intensify, particularly around technology competition and security. If implemented, the restriction could also spur retaliatory measures from China, with ripple effects across the global technology market.

As the US tightens its grip on Chinese technology imports, the implications extend beyond data centers. The recent restrictions on various technologies, including humanoid robotics, highlight a growing concern over China's dominance in innovative sectors. This ongoing tug-of-war illustrates the complex dynamics between national security and technological advancement.