Assistive TechnologyInternational Business and Trade

Micron Reportedly Ceasing Server Chip Supply to Chinese Data Centers Amid Trade Tensions

Micron Technology is reportedly discontinuing server chip supplies to data center customers in China, according to sources familiar with the matter. The decision follows a 2023 ban imposed by Chinese authorities that restricted the company’s operations in critical infrastructure sectors. While server chip sales will cease, Micron will continue supplying other market segments in China.

Micron’s Strategic Shift in Chinese Market

Memory chip manufacturer Micron Technology will reportedly stop supplying server chips to data center companies operating within China, according to recent reports from Reuters. Sources indicate this decision comes after the company failed to recover its server chip business following a 2023 ban imposed by the Chinese government that prohibited Micron products in critical infrastructure projects.

Assistive TechnologyPolicy

US Lawmaker Voices Security Concerns Over Proposed TikTok Algorithm Licensing Deal

A key US lawmaker has expressed serious concerns about potential licensing of TikTok’s algorithm as part of the app’s US asset sale. Representative John Moolenaar warned that Chinese leverage over the algorithm creates significant security risks amid ongoing negotiations.

Algorithm Licensing Proposal Draws Congressional Scrutiny

The chair of the House Select Committee on China has raised alarm about potential licensing arrangements for TikTok‘s core technology, according to reports from Washington. Representative John Moolenaar stated Thursday that any deal involving continued Chinese access to the popular video app’s algorithm would create “serious concerns” about national security.

EnergyMining

Southern Africa’s Critical Minerals Potential Hinges on Investment and Policy Reforms

Southern Africa possesses approximately 30% of the world’s critical mineral resources essential for clean energy technologies, according to a new World Economic Forum analysis. Despite this vast potential, the region captures only a fraction of global exploration spending, hampered by policy uncertainty and infrastructure challenges. Experts suggest that unlocking this mineral wealth requires strategic derisking measures and cross-border collaboration to attract necessary capital.

Vast Mineral Wealth Meets Financing Challenges

Southern Africa holds about 30% of the world’s critical mineral resources according to reports from the World Economic Forum, positioning the region as a potential powerhouse in the global transition to cleaner energy. The analysis, conducted in collaboration with the Development Bank of Southern Africa and McKinsey & Company, highlights minerals including copper, cobalt, lithium, graphite, and platinum-group metals across ten Southern African nations.

Economy and TradingInternational Business and Trade

Copper Market Faces Supply Squeeze as AI and Green Tech Drive Unprecedented Demand

London Metal Exchange CEO warns copper markets face supply constraints as multiple demand drivers converge. Analysis suggests global copper demand could surge 24% over the next decade, creating potential strategic bottlenecks for the energy transition.

Copper Supply Dynamics Under Microscope as Trade Tensions Resurface

Recent trade developments between the United States and China have highlighted growing concerns about copper supply chains, with industry leaders warning that current market conditions suggest potential shortages ahead. According to reports from the London Metal Exchange, spot prices for copper have recently moved above three-month futures prices, indicating what market analysts describe as a short-term supply squeeze.