A U.S. congressional committee has called for an investigation into a technology company in the United Arab Emirates with ties to China. G42, which is controlled by the ruling family of the UAE, has signed agreements with major American technology companies and is overseen by the national security adviser of the Emirates. However, the company’s extensive ties to China’s military and state-owned entities have raised concerns among U.S. officials, leading to calls for trade restrictions on G42 and its affiliated companies in China. The bipartisan committee has asked the Commerce Department to consider imposing export controls on these companies, sparking fears that advanced American technology could end up in the hands of Chinese companies or the government.
The Biden administration also shares concerns about G42’s affiliations with China, fearing it could serve as a conduit for the transfer of advanced American technology to Chinese entities. While the UAE is a significant U.S. partner, its military and economic cooperation with China has fueled worries among American officials. The Congressional committee is giving the Commerce Department until Feb. 2 to act or provide an explanation for why they are not imposing restrictions on G42 and its affiliated companies.
G42 has investments in Chinese companies, including Huawei and BGI Genomics, raising concerns that the Emirati company is aiding Chinese firms in acquiring advanced technologies that could pose a threat to U.S. national security. American intelligence officials have also expressed concerns about G42’s relationship with China, leading to efforts by the Biden administration to sever the company’s ties with Chinese entities.
