Micron Technology Inc., one of the world's largest memory chip manufacturers, has been actively lobbying members of Congress to tighten restrictions on the sale of semiconductor manufacturing equipment to Chinese rivals, according to people familiar with the discussions.

The Boise, Idaho-based company has been meeting with lawmakers and staff to advocate for stricter export controls on advanced chipmaking tools that could be used by Chinese memory chip manufacturers. The push comes as the Biden administration has already implemented sweeping restrictions on China's access to cutting-edge semiconductor technology.

Micron's lobbying effort reflects growing concerns among US semiconductor companies about competition from Chinese firms that have received significant government subsidies. The company has argued that allowing Chinese competitors continued access to advanced manufacturing equipment could undermine American technological leadership in the critical memory chip sector.

The semiconductor industry has become a key battleground in US-China relations, with both nations viewing chip manufacturing capabilities as essential to national security and economic competitiveness. Memory chips, which store data in devices from smartphones to servers, represent a particularly strategic segment of the market.

The timing of Micron's advocacy coincides with ongoing Congressional discussions about strengthening US semiconductor manufacturing and supply chains. Lawmakers from both parties have expressed support for maintaining America's technological edge over China in critical industries.

Representatives for Micron declined to comment on the company's specific lobbying activities. The company has previously stated its support for policies that protect US technological leadership while maintaining fair competition in global markets.