The US Treasury has proposed wider restrictions on American investment in sensitive technologies abroad. The plan targets China, Russia, Cuba, Iran and North Korea. Officials say the aim is to prevent American money from supporting technologies that could strengthen these countries’ military power.
The proposal covers computer chips, artificial intelligence, quantum computing and extremely powerful computers. It also includes hypersonic systems, which can travel at least five times the speed of sound, and biotechnology, which uses living things to develop products or processes. Some investments would require investors to notify the Treasury, while others would be banned.
The rules would apply only to investments above $50,000 and would exclude many financial investments, including share purchases. They expand a programme that began in 2023, when President Joe Biden restricted certain investments in Chinese technology. Congress passed a law in its 2026 defence bill that extended the programme to more countries and technologies.
China’s foreign ministry criticised the proposal, arguing that the US should not interfere with normal business cooperation. It said China would follow developments closely and take steps to protect its interests. Written comments on the draft are due by 7 December, after which the Treasury will issue final rules and establish when they take effect.
