US-China tensions, Microsoft has suggested relocating 700–800 of its China-based employees - mostly engineers working in the cloud computing and artificial intelligence industries. The engineers are offered the chance to relocate to the US, Ireland, Australia, or New Zealand. The Biden administration is closely examining Chinese imports in areas like computer chips, medical supplies, and EV batteries.
The US Commerce Department is also reportedly considering a new regulatory push to restrict the export of proprietary or closed source AI models. These are AI models whose software and data are kept confidential. This move could potentially impact tech companies like Microsoft operating in China.
Despite the proposed employee transfers, Microsoft has reaffirmed its commitment to China. A company spokesperson confirmed that an optional internal transfer opportunity was shared with a subset of employees, adding that providing internal opportunities is part of Microsoft's global business strategy. The spokesperson further emphasized that Microsoft remains committed to the region and will continue to operate in China.
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