On August 4, 2026, Reuters reported that the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is in the process of formulating a ban aimed at preventing the import of new models of Chinese optical transceiver modules via the 'Covered List' mechanism, with the goal of safeguarding vital AI infrastructure. The ban is anticipated to take effect within the year 2026, although there is a possibility of it being revised or postponed. The Chinese Embassy in the U.S. has called on the U.S. side to cease its defamation of Chinese companies and has indicated that it will take the necessary countermeasures in response. Optical module providers, such as InnoLight Technologies, may encounter repercussions. However, considering the inadequate domestic production capacity in the U.S., the probability of a sweeping ban being implemented remains relatively low. The Ministry of Commerce has already rolled out countermeasures, which encompass sanctions against testing institutions collaborating with the FCC and stricter export approvals for dual-use drone items.
