Chinese National and 2 US Citizens Charged With Conspiring to Smuggle AI Tech to China

Computer servers with export-restricted artificial intelligence chips were allegedly headed to China from a California company, prosecutors claimed.
Chinese National and 2 US Citizens Charged With Conspiring to Smuggle AI Tech to China
A person uses AI software on a laptop in central London on July 2, 2025. Justin Tallis/AFP via Getty Images
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A Chinese national and two American citizens have been charged with conspiring to smuggle restricted artificial intelligence (AI) chips into China through Thailand, the U.S. Department of Justice announced March 25.

Federal prosecutors say the three defendants allegedly sought to buy millions of dollars’ worth of export-controlled computer chips from a California-based computer hardware company for shipment without getting export licenses.

Jill McLaughlin
Jill McLaughlin
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Jill McLaughlin is an award-winning journalist covering politics, environment, and statewide issues. She has been a reporter and editor for newspapers in Oregon, Nevada, and New Mexico. Jill was born in Yosemite National Park and enjoys the majestic outdoors, traveling, golfing, and hiking.