China’s SiCarrier subsidiary launches homegrown chip design software amid U.S. tech tensions

A subsidiary of SiCarrier, a Chinese chip equipment manufacturer with close ties to Huawei, has unveiled two domestically developed chip design software tools, marking another step in China’s drive for semiconductor self-sufficiency, according to Chinese state-backed outlet The Paper.

The SiCarrier unit, called Yunqifang, introduced two electronic design automation (EDA) programs with fully independent intellectual property rights, aiming to reduce China’s reliance on Western technology in chip design. EDA software is critical to developing the blueprints of advanced semiconductors, which are central to modern electronics and artificial intelligence.

The announcement comes as U.S.-China tech tensions escalate. Earlier this year, Washington temporarily restricted exports of EDA tools to China after Beijing suspended exports of rare earths and magnets, which are vital for chipmaking. Analysts have warned that prolonged U.S. restrictions could cripple China’s semiconductor design capabilities, where it still trails the United States.

The timing of the launch coincides with U.S. President Donald Trump’s renewed threats to impose 100% tariffs on Chinese exports and expand export controls on “any and all critical software” by November 1, days before current tariff relief is due to expire.

Founded in 2021 and owned by the Shenzhen city government, SiCarrier has emerged as a strategic player in China’s semiconductor industry, aligning with Beijing’s push for technological self-reliance. Its progress reflects the broader effort to build a complete, homegrown semiconductor ecosystem capable of withstanding foreign trade pressures.