Poland Expresses Outrage Over U.S. Ban on AI Chip Exports

Mark Brzezinski, the U.S. ambassador to Poland, was pressed to explain a recent decision by Washington just before concluding his tenure on Monday, according to the Polish Ministry for Economic Development in remarks shared via email with POLITICO. During a visit to the U.S. this week, Deputy Minister Michał Baranowski also plans to address the issue.

This dispute highlights how U.S. efforts to curb China’s technological progress can inadvertently strain relations with European allies. Both President Joe Biden and his predecessor, Donald Trump, have intensified measures to block China’s access to advanced technologies like cutting-edge chips. These actions, however, sometimes come at the expense of European companies, as seen in cases like the Netherlands limiting China’s access to chip-making tools provided by ASML.

Last Monday, the U.S. announced that 18 allied nations—including 10 from the EU—would continue to enjoy unrestricted access to AI chips. The European tech ecosystem heavily depends on U.S. firms such as Nvidia, the leading global designer of advanced chips. However, Poland failed to make the list of 18 countries and now faces strict limitations on the number of AI chips it can import.

The U.S. decision was met with “deep surprise,” according to a statement from Polish officials. “The omission of Poland among the 18 key allies and partners is a decision that I find incomprehensible,” wrote Polish Deputy Minister Michał Paszyk.

The Polish government expressed concerns over how these restrictions might harm its technology sector and ongoing military modernization. “Poland has been investing in the development of the high-tech sector for years, and possible restrictions may adversely affect the pace and scope of this process,” the Ministry for Economic Development stated.

The cap could also have significant implications for Poland’s military ambitions. The country has been working to integrate AI technologies into its defense systems, such as tools for monitoring and responding to enemy activities. According to the ministry, U.S. export restrictions might hinder Poland’s ability to further enhance these critical systems.