WASHINGTON -- The U.S. government will require as early as May that companies operating in America ask for permission to use information technology equipment and services from China or other countries deemed "adversaries," a move that could affect up to 4.5 million businesses.
Regulations put in place in March let Washington review such corporate purchases or usage of technology and block any transactions deemed too risky, with the aim of preventing leaks of sensitive information. The Commerce Department is preparing to offer licenses or pre-clearance to reduce the burden on businesses.
