Cadence, Synopsys, Siemens Resume EDA Access in China

On July 3, Cadence Design Systems announced that the United States has lifted its export restrictions on electronic design automation (EDA) software to China and is restoring access for previously affected clients.

This move follows the implementation of a bilateral trade agreement aimed at improving the flow of critical technologies between the U.S. and China. Reports indicate that the U.S. government, under a revised policy initially imposed by the previous administration, has partially or fully removed licensing requirements for the export of semiconductor design tools to China.

Siemens AG also confirmed it has received formal notice from the U.S. government regarding the removal of export restrictions. The German technology company stated that full access to its software and technologies has now been reinstated for its customers in China.

Similarly, Synopsys issued a statement revealing that on July 2, it received a letter from the U.S. Department of Commerce's Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS), officially revoking the export control measures that were enacted based on a May 29 directive. The revocation is effective immediately, and Synopsys has resumed the supply of its restricted products to the Chinese market along with full customer support.

Earlier this year, the BIS had sent letters to several leading EDA tool providers, ordering a halt to shipments to Chinese clients and rescinding certain previously granted licenses. The affected scope included not only semiconductor design software but also associated materials such as specialty chemicals.