Super Micro employees detained in Taiwan probe of AI server smuggling to China

Taiwanese prosecutors have intensified a probe into the illegal export of advanced AI servers equipped with Nvidia chips. Raids targeted Super Micro’s Taiwan office and affiliates, seizing about 50 servers and searching 12 locations, including homes of six suspects and the premises of Albatron Technology and Chief Telecom.

Four Super Micro employees were questioned; two have been detained pending a court hearing and two released on bail, all placed on administrative leave. The investigation now involves nine individuals across multiple firms. Super Micro says it is not the target of the investigation, has cooperated fully with authorities, and provided access to employee workstations and devices.

The case follows U.S. Justice Department charges against three Super Micro affiliates for allegedly smuggling $2.5 billion worth of AI technology to China, violating U.S. export controls. The Taiwanese probe underscores broader U.S. and Taiwanese efforts to curb the flow of high‑performance semiconductor technology to China. The company’s shares fell sharply after the news, reflecting market concerns over potential penalties and export‑license restrictions.