AMD CEO Lisa Su met with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng in Beijing on May 18, 2026, signaling the company’s intent to increase its investment and operations in China. This meeting highlights the challenges US chipmakers face as export controls continue to reshape access to China’s semiconductor market.
- Lisa Su met Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng to discuss AMD’s China strategy.
- US semiconductor export controls force AMD to adapt its product offerings for China.
- China’s semiconductor ambitions heighten competition for US firms including AMD.
What happened
On May 18, 2026, AMD CEO Lisa Su met with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. The meeting aimed to reaffirm AMD’s commitment to expanding operations and investment in the Chinese market. He Lifeng encouraged multinational companies like AMD to seize China’s development opportunities and deepen mutually beneficial cooperation.
This event occurred shortly after a state visit by then-US President Donald Trump to China. Discussions with He Lifeng acknowledged recent diplomatic summits and highlighted continued collaboration despite existing trade tensions and export control constraints.
Why it matters
China’s ambitions to build sovereign semiconductor capabilities, exemplified by Huawei’s state-supported chip projects, add competitive pressure. AMD faces a strategic decision to either risk losing market share to domestic rivals by retreating or remain engaged and navigate regulatory challenges, as signaled by Su’s direct engagement with Chinese leadership.
What to watch next
Monitor US legislative developments such as the MATCH Act, which could tighten semiconductor equipment export controls and affect the broader trade environment. Chinese responses to US restrictions, including efforts to accelerate domestic chipmaking, will also influence AMD’s long-term China strategy.