ZTE has won an extended reprieve from the US export restrictions imposed on the vendor for allegedly violating sanctions on trading with Iran.
The US Department of Commerce has extended the company's temporary general sales license through to August 30, effectively postponing the introduction of the sanctions.
“We are very pleased by today’s decision. This extension of relief reflects ZTE’s continuing efforts to fulfill its commitments to create a best-in-class compliance program,” ZTE said in a statement.
“It also recognizes ZTE’s determination to cooperate with authorities, resolve the ongoing investigation and share information as requested. This extended interim relief will enable ZTE to continue serving its customers, partners and suppliers in the US as it works with authorities to enhance its compliance program and reach a permanent resolution.”
In March, the Department of Commerce imposed export restrictions requiring any tech company seeking to supply US-made equipment to ZTE to apply for permission, with the default assumption being that this permission would be denied.
The restrictions relate to an ongoing investigation by the department's Bureau of Industry and Security focused on whether ZTE purchased US products via front companies and then shipped them to Iran, which would violate US sanctions.
But later that month the department agreed to temporarily lift the restrictionsby granting ZTE an interim general sales license, which would only be maintained on the condition that ZTE abides by its commitments to the US government. This temporary license has now been extended for two more months.