AMD's move in China raised eyebrows

AMD, recognized as one of the most important tech companies in the world, made a move in China that puzzled many.

AMD's move in China raised eyebrows

Advanced Micro Devices, commonly known as AMD, has been making modifications to its operations in China. Contrary to online speculations suggesting major job cuts in AMD's Shanghai location, the company verified that they've undergone a "small optimization and restructuring". Given the intricate dynamics of China's chip sector, it's crucial to understand the implications of AMD's move.

In 2022, AMD had a strong sales record in China, with the country representing 22% of their total external sales. However, a U.S. export prohibition has created challenges for both AMD and its competitor, Nvidia. This ban hindered their capacity to distribute their advanced AI-training GPUs within China, leading to the emergence of an unofficial market. This black market now addresses the demand of China's tech giants looking for high-quality AI chips.

AMD's move in China raised eyebrows

AMD's CEO, Lisa Su, remains hopeful about the future prospects in China, despite these challenges. She emphasized AMD's dedication to adhere to U.S. export regulations, all the while expressing an eagerness to develop AI solutions that cater to China's specific needs.

Without giving away much, AMD's reference to "restructuring" in China frequently hints at reductions in staff numbers. In accordance with Chinese regulations, any layoff that affects more than 20 staff requires intervention from official labor authorities. AMD's move is reminiscent of other tech giants like Qualcomm and Marvell Technology, who appear to be trimming their workforce in response to the ongoing U.S.-China tech conflict and fluctuations in the global consumer electronics demand.

Amidst the prevailing uncertainties, the overarching question is whether AMD is retreating or simply adapting to the changing landscape. All indications suggest that AMD is taking deliberate actions, strategizing to harness the potential of the Chinese market. By refining its operations, AMD aims to leverage the opportunities in China while ensuring alignment with U.S. policies. Considering the revenue they derive from China, AMD might not pull out entirely, but a strategic shift is undeniably underway.

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