Trump signs order to protect US networks from Chinese tech

President Trump on Wednesday signed an executive order declaring a “national emergency” that would empower his administration to block foreign tech companies from doing business in the U.S. if they are deemed a national security threat.

The order does not name any countries or companies, but the administration has launched a global campaign to keep the Chinese telecom giant Huawei from helping U.S. allies develop next-generation wireless infrastructures.

The measure will empower the Department of Commerce to block transactions that it deems to be a threat to national security.

“This Executive Order addresses the threat posed by foreign adversaries to the nation’s information and communications technology and services supply chain,” Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross said in a statement. “Under President Trump’s leadership, Americans will be able to trust that our data and infrastructure are secure.”