U.S. Sets AI Chip Rules for Security, Alliances

The Biden administration has unveiled the ‘Interim Final Rule on Artificial Intelligence Diffusion.’ This framework aims to control the export of advanced AI chips. It seeks to achieve two goals: help allied nations access these chips while restricting adversaries like China.

Protecting Security While Supporting Allies

As AI continues to grow in power, it also brings greater risks to national security. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo emphasized the need for these measures, stating:

“As AI becomes more powerful, the risks to our national security become even more intense. This framework is designed to safeguard the most advanced AI technology, ensuring that it stays out of the hands of our foreign adversaries, while also enabling the broad diffusion and sharing of its benefits with partner countries.”

The new rules focus on Graphics Processing Units (GPUs). These chips, used in gaming and graphics-heavy tasks, are also crucial for AI applications.

Clear Export Rules Based on Country Categories

The rules create three groups for countries, each with different levels of access:

1. Strategic Allies (Category One): Nations like Australia, Japan, and Taiwan can import top GPUs without restrictions. These countries are key U.S. partners.
2. Limited Access (Category Two): Most other nations fall into this category. They can buy GPUs, but only with limits on computing power.
3. Adversarial Nations (Category Three): Countries such as China, Russia, and Iran face strict restrictions. While the draft does not name them explicitly, it is clear they are the focus.

Additionally, U.S. companies cannot share certain AI software details with nations outside Category One. If they plan to build large data centers in restricted countries, they must get government approval first.

Industry Reactions to the New Framework

Unsurprisingly, the rules have drawn criticism from the tech industry. The Semiconductor Industry Association (SIA) and NVIDIA, a leading AI chipmaker, have voiced concerns. They argue the administration drafted the rules too quickly and without proper industry consultation.

NVIDIA has also warned about economic consequences. The restrictions could block access to 120 countries, including Mexico, Portugal, Israel, and Switzerland. This is significant because the global AI chip market is projected to reach $457.65 billion by 2032.

Preparing for Broader Impacts

For now, the rule is open to public comment for 120 days. During this period, stakeholders can provide feedback, and the government may revise or reject the framework. However, the timing coincides with the upcoming change in U.S. leadership, which could further complicate its future.

These rules show the U.S. effort to balance innovation with national security. At the same time, they reflect a broader global trend to regulate AI technologies responsibly.

Learn More

• Semiconductor Trends: Discover the latest updates in the industry.
• AI Policy Updates: Explore how the U.S. regulates AI technologies.
• AI and Security: Understand AI’s role in global security.