Microsoft Corporation has offered around 800 of its China-based engineers working on cloud computing and artificial intelligence the option to consider relocating abroad. This move comes amidst increasing tensions between Washington and Beijing over key future technologies. According to reports, mainly Chinese citizens involved in machine learning and cloud development have been presented with the opportunity to transfer to the USA, Ireland, Australia, or New Zealand.
The Biden administration is looking to impose stricter restrictions on China regarding the advancement of cutting-edge technologies. The White House is contemplating new regulations that would mandate American cloud companies like Microsoft to obtain licenses before granting Chinese clients access to AI chips.
A spokesperson from Microsoft confirmed that the corporation has provided the option of internal transfers to employees in the region, emphasizing Microsoft’s commitment to China and its continued operations in the country. Microsoft’s activities in the People’s Republic of China, where a majority of its engineers are involved in developing software products and technologies for the Asia-Pacific region, have garnered attention from policymakers in Washington. Reportedly, approximately 7,000 local specialists are engaged in the corporation’s research.
The engineers being offered the opportunity to relocate are just a fraction of the thousands of employees working on Microsoft’s cloud solutions. While they have the choice to accept the relocation offer or remain in their current positions in China, the demand for cloud computing and artificial intelligence is on the rise. Microsoft is investing in building the necessary infrastructure globally to meet this growing demand, including announcing plans to invest billions of dollars in constructing new data centers in various countries.