New York — US federal prosecutors have charged three individuals associated with AI server maker Super Micro Computer in connection with an alleged scheme to illegally route American technology to China, in violation of export control laws.
The indictment, unsealed in Manhattan on March 19 by the US Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York, names Yih-Shyan Liaw, Ruei-Tsang Chang and Ting-Wei Sun. Authorities claim the trio orchestrated a complex operation to divert high-value AI servers—reportedly containing advanced Nvidia chips through Southeast Asia before ultimately delivering them to China.
According to investigators, the accused used intermediaries in Taiwan to relabel shipments, remove identifying markers, and disguise the origin of the hardware. Techniques allegedly included stripping serial numbers and repackaging equipment to avoid detection by US regulators.
Liaw, a co-founder of Super Micro, recently rejoined the company’s board, while Chang worked in its Taiwan sales division and Sun served as a contractor. Officials allege they concealed the activities from both US authorities and the companies involved.
Reacting to the case, Nvidia reiterated its commitment to export compliance, stating it does not support or service systems that are unlawfully diverted. The US has enforced strict curbs on exports of advanced AI chips to China since 2022.
Super Micro clarified that it is not named as a defendant in the indictment but confirmed it has taken action against those implicated. The company said the individuals’ actions violated its internal compliance policies and export regulations, adding that it remains committed to adhering to all applicable US laws.