The investigation aims to “protect key information infrastructure supply chain security” and “prevent cybersecurity risks from problematic products,” said the Cybersecurity Review Office of the China Cyberspace Administration (CAC).
The statement did not provide details on which products of the company are “problematic” or which elements in the supply chain pose a security risk.
China’s internet and cybersecurity authority is launching an investigation into a foreign company for the first time.
Beijing administration targets a US company for the first time
Recently, the US has demonstrated its intention to curb China’s technological development in the industry with export controls and technology restrictions.
The Beijing administration, which has not taken a step against these initiatives until today, is targeting a US company for the first time.
Micron, one of the world’s leading memory chip manufacturers, warned in its 2021 financial report that the increased government support for domestic chip manufacturers may limit the growth potential, hinder the Chinese government’s access to the market and reduce the chance of competition.
The company closed its chip design unit in Shanghai, transferring about 150 engineers to units in the US and India.
The China Cyberspace Administration launched a cybersecurity investigation against the Chinese mobile transportation company Didi Global in July 2021, and imposed an administrative fine of $1.2 billion upon the investigation.