Amid US-China Tensions... MS Proposes Overseas Relocation to Hundreds of AI Employees in China

Amid escalating US-China tensions over technological supremacy, Microsoft (MS) has reportedly asked hundreds of employees working in cloud computing and artificial intelligence (AI) operations in China to consider relocating overseas.

[Image source=Reuters Yonhap News]

The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reported on the 16th, citing sources, that most of those who received this request from MS are Chinese nationals, reporting from Beijing. The sources explained that they were offered opportunities to move to the United States, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, and other locations. One official stated, "The company is recruiting about 700 to 800 personnel engaged in cloud computing-related work such as machine learning."

MS's move is particularly notable as it comes amid the Biden administration's continued strict regulatory measures against China in advanced AI development. The White House previously required licenses even for exports of low-spec AI chips to China and is now considering new regulations that would require MS and other US cloud computing companies to obtain licenses for exports to China.

An MS spokesperson acknowledged that some employees were offered internal relocation opportunities but explained that this is just part of their global business operations. He also made it clear that MS will continue its business in China. WSJ confirmed that MS's Asia-Pacific research and development group includes about 7,000 engineers, most of whom are based in China.

One source said, "Those offered relocation are among thousands of engineers participating in MS cloud projects," adding, "If they decide not to leave China, they can continue working there." Another source confirmed that this offer was made earlier this week.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.