Major U.S. and Israeli Cybersecurity Firms Banned in China
China has recently escalated tech tensions with Washington by ordering domestic companies to cease using cybersecurity software from over a dozen U.S. and Israeli firms. This move is driven by national security concerns.
As per sources privy to the matter, Chinese authorities have issued directives in the past few days. These directives instruct companies to replace cybersecurity products from major vendors by the first half of 2026. The list of banned U.S. companies includes names like VMware (owned by Broadcom), Palo Alto Networks, Fortinet, CrowdStrike, and several others. Israeli firms affected include Check Point Software Technologies, as reported by multiple sources.
Chinese officials have expressed their apprehension that foreign cybersecurity software could potentially collect and transmit confidential information abroad. This could create vulnerabilities for their customers. This directive is a result of the ongoing trade and diplomatic tensions between China and the U.S., with both nations competing for technological dominance.
This move is a part of Beijing’s broader strategy to replace Western technology with domestic alternatives across critical digital infrastructure. China’s largest cybersecurity providers, including 360 Security Technology and Neusoft, are expected to benefit from this transition as companies pivot to domestic suppliers.
The ban has been announced ahead of a planned visit by U.S. President Donald Trump to Beijing in April 2026. This comes at a time when both nations are navigating a complex trade relationship amidst ongoing technological competition.
Source: Bloomberg