Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick has moved to soften chip export rules covering Southeast Asian data centers. Some of those facilities are clients of his former firm, Cantor Fitzgerald.
The proposed changes would ease restrictions on advanced semiconductors shipped to the region. The rules overlap with business ties Lutnick retained before joining the administration.
Cantor Fitzgerald held relationships with data center operators affected by the policy. Ethics officials have raised questions about the overlap between his official duties and private interests.
Lutnick has not publicly addressed the potential conflict. The Commerce Department declined to comment on the specific clients involved.
The rulemaking is part of a broader push to revise AI chip controls. Officials are weighing security concerns against commercial interests in a fast-growing market.
Southeast Asian data centers have expanded rapidly to meet regional computing demand. Loosening the rules could open new export channels for U.S. chipmakers.
Critics argue the changes could weaken safeguards meant to keep advanced technology from strategic rivals. Supporters say updated rules reflect how the industry actually operates.
The review remains ongoing, and no final decision has been announced. Lawmakers are expected to press for details on how conflicts are being managed.
