In a statement, the White House said: "These new directives will advance a more efficient and transparent export licensing process and enhance dispute resolution mechanisms. They will also help ensure proper levels of control for continued U.S. economic competitiveness and innovation while protecting national security."

Few other details were released.

U.S. manufacturing groups neverthess praised the action. "In order to efficiently share technology with our allies, the administration is updating a system that had not kept pace with globalization and rapid technological changes," National Association of Manufacturers' President John Engler said in a statement.

"This decision will keep sensitive technologies out of the hands of those seeking to harm us without hampering the ability of high-tech industries to expand exports," Engler said.

A key part of the export reforms is a validated end-user program. Four chip makers operating in China were recently added to the list.

The Commerce Department's Bureau of Industry and Security, which oversees U.S. export controls, has scheduled a forum on March to explain the new export contol guidelines.