Source: Fortune
Summary
A federal judge has granted Alibaba a temporary reprieve from a law that caused its lobbyists to drop it as a client, allowing the company to continue lobbying while the court considers the constitutionality of the measure. The law, which targets entities allegedly aiding China’s military, had forced lobbyists to choose between representing Alibaba and US defense contractors. Alibaba has sued the Pentagon, arguing that the restriction violates its freedom of speech. The case will test the US’s ability to curtail Chinese companies’ activities.
Our Reading
The numbers tell one story.
Alibaba’s lobbyists dropped it as a client, and the company sued the Pentagon. The judge’s reprieve gives Alibaba a temporary lifeline. The Pentagon’s blacklist has become a key tool in the US-China rivalry. Alibaba argues that the restriction violates its freedom of speech. The case will likely be closely watched.
The Pentagon’s blacklist is a blunt instrument, and Alibaba is just the tip of the iceberg.
Author: Evan Null
