The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) at the U.S. Department of Commerce has unveiled a significant update to the Biden-Harris Administration’s export control measures targeting China’s AI and semiconductor sectors. These regulations, along with related policies, stand at the center of U.S. national security initiatives, as export restrictions become increasingly vital in the U.S. government’s strategy to limit the People’s Republic of China’s integration of cutting-edge technologies into its military advancement programs.
On January 14, 2025, the CSIS Wadhwani AI Center will welcome Alan Estevez, Under Secretary of Commerce for Industry and Security and chief architect of U.S. export control policies at the U.S. Department of Commerce. Mr. Estevez will engage in discussion with Wadhwani Center director Gregory C. Allen to analyze the latest export control modifications and evaluate the Biden administration’s strategic approach to AI and semiconductor export restrictions, alongside other BIS developments over the previous four years. This discussion will explore the critical nature of sustaining U.S. technological dominance, BIS’s expansion of earlier restrictions from both Biden and Trump administrations, and ongoing technological rivalry with China and other nations challenging U.S. interests.
Mr. Estevez directs the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS). BIS oversees and implements controls on dual-use advanced technologies while scrutinizing technology supply chain activities that could compromise U.S. national security. Before joining BIS, Mr. Estevez dedicated 36 years to the Department of Defense (DOD), holding two Senate-confirmed executive positions. His final DOD role was Principal Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology & Logistics, overseeing the creation, execution, and administration of acquisition, contracting, and logistics initiatives aimed at enhancing military effectiveness and optimizing departmental procurement efficiency.
