Intel tests chipmaking tools from sanctioned China-focused tool maker, report claims — move could raise political and national security concerns, firm was backed by CEO Lip-Bu Tan’s investment firm

Intel is evaluating wet etch equipment from ACM Research, a U.S.-based maker of fab tools that is primarily focused on China and has extensive operations in the People’s Republic, for potential use with its vital process technology, Reuters claims. While Intel tests all kinds of tools from numerous makers of equipment, these particular etching machines raise political and national security concerns. Furthermore, Walden International, a venture capital firm founded and chaired by Intel chief executive…