China Slams CIA's 'Bandit Logic' as US Expands Espionage Targets to Chinese Tech Firms
Bastillepost · 4 SOURCES41 minutes ago6 MIN
Summary
The Chinese Ministry of Commerce has issued a strong condemnation of CIA Deputy Director Michael Ellis (埃利斯) after he publicly declared on September 8 that Chinese companies in artificial intelligence, semiconductors, and biotechnology constitute "legitimate targets" for American espionage operations. The rare public acknowledgment of expanded US intelligence activities against China came at a Washington cybersecurity conference, with the timing coinciding with President Xi Jinping's anticipated visit to the United States later this month. Beijing responded on September 11, accusing Washington of exposing its "bandit logic" through hegemonic practices that violate fair competition principles.
Key Points
- CIA Deputy Director Michael Ellis admitted at a September 8 Washington cybersecurity conference that the agency is conducting broader espionage operations targeting Chinese companies in advanced technology sectors
- Ellis specifically identified artificial intelligence, semiconductors, and biotechnology as "legitimate targets," arguing China's state-linked business environment differs from Western economies
- The CIA official claimed traditional political and military intelligence channels cannot access valuable technology information, which exists within private sector entities
- China's Ministry of Commerce spokesperson on September 11 condemned the remarks as exposing America's "bandit logic" and hegemonic behavior
- Beijing accused Washington of applying double standards, noting the US itself is the world's largest perpetrator of global espionage activities
Why It Matters
This escalation in openly acknowledged US intelligence targeting of Chinese technology firms marks a significant deterioration in bilateral relations ahead of high-level talks, with implications for global technology supply chains. For Hong Kong, which serves as a major financial and technology intermediary between China and international markets, such tensions could increase scrutiny of cross-border business dealings and technology transfers through the city. The rhetoric from both sides suggests potential retaliatory measures that could affect companies operating in sectors from semiconductor manufacturing to port equipment, areas where Hong Kong maintains significant commercial interests.
This escalation in openly acknowledged US intelligence targeting of Chinese technology firms marks a significant deterioration in bilateral relations ahead of high-level talks, with implications for global technology supply chains. For Hong Kong, which serves as a major financial and technology intermediary between China and international markets, such tensions could increase scrutiny of cross-border business dealings and technology transfers through the city. The rhetoric from both sides suggests potential retaliatory measures that could affect companies operating in sectors from semiconductor manufacturing to port equipment, areas where Hong Kong maintains significant commercial interests.