Associated Press: China’s Tech-Transfer Demands May Spark Pushback From US

China orchestrates special arrangements with foreign technology firm, requiring details on proprietary technology, blocking virtual private networks from devices in China, as well as applying strict search filters to discourage distribution of criticism of Chinese practices or information about the critics themselves. The Trump administration early on showed a willingness to overlook such challenges in the tech trade in order to secure Chinese support in tackling North Korea’s nuclear weapons program and the large US trade deficit with China in goods. But with no signals that such support is forthcoming, the Trump administration may move on tech complaints. “The administration is discussing the use of Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974, which empowers Washington to launch an investigation into China's trade practices and, within months, raise tariffs on imports from China, or impose other sanctions,” reports the Associated Press, based on an anonymous source. “The administration also was considering how to resist technology-sharing demands from Beijing as part of its ambitious Made in China 2025 program, a blueprint for making China a leader in advanced technologies such as autonomous driving, artificial intelligence, robotics and other industries.” – YaleGlobal