Intel CEO Lip-Bu Tan has responded to calls for his resignation from US President Donald Trump. Via an internal letter addressed to company employees today, he said allegations about his past business ties were based on misinformation.
Tan said he has always acted within “the highest legal and ethical standards” throughout his more than four decades in the technology industry, including during his leadership at venture capital firm Walden International and chip design company Cadence Design Systems. He stressed that his professional reputation was built on trust and that the same principles guide his leadership of Intel.
The Johor-born industry veteran, who has lived in the United States for over 40 years, reiterated his commitment to advancing US national and economic security, aligning himself with the administration’s priorities. He said Intel is engaging with the White House to address concerns and provide what he described as the factual record regarding his previous roles and investments.
Tan added that Intel’s board continues to back his leadership as the company pursues a turnaround plan, highlighting upcoming milestones such as the planned ramp-up of high-volume manufacturing using advanced US semiconductor processes later this year. He told employees the company remains focused on executing its strategy, innovating for customers, and strengthening its role in the US technology and manufacturing ecosystem.
The letter comes after Trump accused the Intel CEO of being “highly conflicted” due to alleged investments in Chinese companies linked to the country’s military. The claims were echoed by Republican Senator Tom Cotton, who cited past legal issues involving Cadence’s Chinese subsidiary, though Tan was not personally charged. The controversy has weighed on Intel’s share price, which fell more than 3% after the US president’s remarks.
(Source: Intel [newsroom])
