China’s Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) has escalated trade tensions with the US by sending detailed questionnaires to major American semiconductor companies, reportedly targeting firms such as Texas Instruments Inc. and Analog Devices Inc. The move is part of an officially initiated anti-dumping investigation into certain imported analog integrated circuit (IC) chips originating from the United States. The initial probe was announced in September, and this action is viewed as a signal of Beijing’s willingness to implement reciprocal trade curbs in response to persistent US restrictions on China’s access to advanced technology.
The questionnaires demand a highly sensitive level of detail regarding business operations. Specifically, MOFCOM is requesting comprehensive data on sales activities in China, a comparison of costs and profits for the chips in both the US and China, the names of Chinese customers, and transaction details including sales volumes and costs related to logistics and warehousing. Companies have been given a strict deadline of 37 days to provide the complete and accurate information.
Analog IC chips, although not the cutting-edge AI processors under the highest scrutiny, are critical components used widely in consumer electronics, electric vehicles, and industrial equipment. This investigation introduces significant commercial and legal risks for American chipmakers in their largest market, potentially disrupting global supply chains and benefiting non-US rivals. The probe’s outcome, expected to be concluded within 12 to 18 months, will be closely watched ahead of planned talks between the two countries’ leaders.
