Support Tailored Emerging Tech Export Controls, IBM Official Tells Congress

Congress should ensure existing and new trade agreements promote “responsible” collaboration in emerging technologies, including through targeted export controls, said Charles Robinson, an IBM quantum computing executive. In June 22 testimony to the Cybersecurity, Infrastructure Protection, and Innovation Subcommittee of the House Homeland Security Committee, Robinson said lawmakers should “support the tailoring of export controls” to keep sensitive technologies “out of the hands of nefarious actors.” He specifically mentioned quantum technologies, which are particularly sensitive and “present possible dual-use concerns.” Industry groups and companies have urged Commerce to avoid broad, unilateral controls on quantum technologies and other emerging technologies, which they say could stifle U.S. competitiveness and innovation (see 2204140033, 2205100022 and 2202180013).