Lifting of export restrictions on US technology and energy products has signaled a new phase in US-China trade relations. The move marks a reversal of earlier policies and is raising hopes for improved cooperation.
On Thursday, US tech company Synopsys confirmed that the US Department of Commerce had removed earlier export restrictions. The decision came through a letter dated May 29, 2025. The company shared the update in a statement provided to the Global Times.
Synopsys said it is working to restore product access in China. The firm is also reviewing how earlier restrictions affected its operations and finances.
Meanwhile, two other leading Electronic Design Automation (EDA) providers, Cadence Design Systems and Siemens, announced similar updates. Both firms stated they are either restoring access or have already resumed normal operations in China.
Cadence noted it was actively restoring services. Siemens confirmed full access to its software and technologies for Chinese customers. Bloomberg cited company statements verifying these developments.
EDA tools are crucial for semiconductor design. In April, Xinhua reported that Synopsys, Cadence, and Siemens control over 70 percent of China’s EDA market.
In a parallel decision, the US also lifted license requirements for ethane exports to China. Reuters reported that the US cleared companies like Enterprise Products Partners and Energy Transfer to resume exports. Ethane traders Satellite Chemical USA and Vinmar International were also included.
This step follows curbs that stalled at least eight vessels along the US Gulf Coast in June. Those shipments are now en route to China.
A spokesperson for China’s Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) addressed the recent changes on Friday. The official stated that China would continue to approve exports of eligible items under Chinese law. In return, the US would remove certain restrictions.
Chinese and US trade teams reportedly confirmed the Geneva trade talks framework. This framework was agreed upon during recent economic discussions in London.
Experts welcomed the lifting of export restrictions as a step toward restoring mutual trust. Zhou Mi from the Chinese Academy of International Trade called the move a sign of US commitment. He emphasized the importance of bilateral cooperation.
Gao Lingyun from the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences added that unilateral US actions have proven unsustainable. He noted that mutual cooperation is now essential.
The MOFCOM had previously expressed concerns about US export controls in the semiconductor sector. The lifting of export restrictions is now seen as a first step toward easing broader trade tensions.
Zhou urged both countries to go beyond these initial measures. He stressed the importance of removing all trade barriers and expanding mutual cooperation.
These moves come at a time when both economies face global pressure. Restoring open trade channels is key for stability and growth on both sides.
