President Donald Trump met Monday with Intel CEO Lip-Bu Tan, just days after urging him to resign over alleged conflicts of interest. The meeting, attended by Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, marked a sharp shift in tone from Trump’s earlier criticism.
Intel confirmed the discussion was “candid and constructive,” focusing on strengthening U.S. technology and manufacturing leadership. Tan, who became CEO in March after serving on Intel’s board since 2022, faces scrutiny from lawmakers over past business ties to China.
Last week, Sen. Tom Cotton questioned whether Tan had divested from entities linked to the Chinese government and military. Trump previously called Tan “highly conflicted” and demanded his immediate resignation.
The meeting comes as the Trump administration intensifies its influence over the semiconductor industry amid U.S.-China competition in AI. Over the weekend, Nvidia agreed to pay the U.S. government a 15% cut of its China sales in exchange for export licenses for its H20 chip, following negotiations with Trump.
Tan, 65, is leading Intel’s turnaround efforts after challenges in AI and heavy spending on foundry expansion. He recently announced layoffs, cuts to the foundry division, and delays in European and U.S. manufacturing projects.
Intel shares rose 2% in extended trading following news of the meeting.