Image: Bruno/ Germany / Pixabay
Intel, a US-based semiconductor manufacturer, has landed at odds with Beijing over human rights.
Intel has apologized to its Chinese suppliers for the ban of using components from ‘Xinjiang’. The ban created fiery discussions among Chinese netizens on Weibo, calling for Beijing to punish Intel.
The controversy started after Intel sent a note to its Chinese suppliers saying they should not use Xinjiang-made components in Intel’s chips.
In a Chinese-language social media (Weibo) post, Intel said it wanted to ‘clarify’, that the ban was only for compliance with US law. ‘We apologize for the trouble caused to our respected Chinese customers, partners, and the public,’ Intel added.
Image: Intel Weibo Account
Last Year twenty-five percent of Intel’s revenue came from customers in China. The company has more than 10,000 employees in the country.
Below is a translation of the main points of Intel’s public statement and apology regarding the year-end letter of the company to its suppliers, published on its Weibo account:
“Intel has a deep respect for China. We have a long-term cooperative relationship with China, including more than 36 years of investment and solid cooperation, and more than 10,000 employees.
We are continuously committed to China and our Chinese business partners, customers and employees. Intel’s annual letter to suppliers triggered relevant media reports and debates, especially in response to the requirement on the supply chain.
We thank everyone for their questions and concerns and respect the issue of Sensitivity in China. As a multinational company, we are surrounded by continuous development, change, and complexities. We should have a cautious attitude when responding to and dealing with the complex global environment.
We deeply regret that the letter has prompted many questions and concerns from our Chinese partners.
The original intention of the paragraph about Xinjiang was only to express compliance and legality. We did not intend to voice a position. Our esteemed Chinese customers, partners, and the public: We are very sorry for the inconvenience.
Intel is committed to becoming a trusted technical cooperation partner to accelerate mutual development with China. If you have any questions, please, contact Intel Corporate Communications.”