According to a report by state-backed media outlet The Paper, the newly launched tools are electronic design automation (EDA) software systems built with fully independent intellectual property rights. EDA software is a critical component in designing blueprints for advanced semiconductors and is currently dominated by U.S. technology firms.
The release underscores Beijing’s accelerating drive to reduce dependence on foreign technology, particularly in sensitive sectors such as chipmaking, where U.S. export controls have intensified in recent years. Earlier in 2025, Washington imposed temporary restrictions on exports of chip design software to China, following Beijing’s suspension of rare earth exports and related materials used in magnets.
Analysts have long cautioned that extended U.S. restrictions on EDA software could deal a serious blow to China’s semiconductor ambitions, given its current lag behind the U.S. in this area of technological development.
The announcement also comes amid renewed trade tensions, with former U.S. President Donald Trump threatening to introduce fresh export controls on “any and all critical software” and to impose tariffs of up to 100% on Chinese exports to the United States starting November 1, shortly before existing tariff relief is due to expire.
Founded in 2021 and owned by the Shenzhen city government, SiCarrier has quickly risen in prominence within China’s semiconductor ecosystem. The company is seen as a key player in Beijing’s broader strategy to achieve self-sufficiency in critical technologies, as it expands its portfolio of chip design and manufacturing solutions.