Washington launches export initiative to ensure ‘future of AI is led by the United States’

The US government has unveiled an AI export initiative designed to cement American technological leadership while countering China’s growing influence in the sector.

Washington is inviting US companies to form “preset” consortiums to offer full-stack artificial intelligence solutions around the world. Applications will be accepted until the end of June, the International Trade Administration (ITA), an agency under the US Department of Commerce, said in a news release issued on Wednesday.

The release said “export packages” – comprising hardware, data pipelines, foundational models, cybersecurity, and industry-specific applications – will be promoted globally with the full weight of US diplomatic and financial backing.

“By promoting full-stack American solutions, we are strengthening our economic and national security, deepening ties with allies and partners, and ensuring that the future of AI is led by the United States,” US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said.

A 15-page ITA document inviting the submission of proposals outlined stringent “national interest” requirements, stipulating that anchor members of any consortium must be US-incorporated and free from the control of “countries of concern”.