Arm Holdings has laid off more than 70 software engineers in China, where it previously employed more than 200 people. Informed sources say that some of the laid-off specialists will be offered jobs outside the country, writes Bloomberg.

It is expected that about 15 employees who lost their jobs may get new positions in projects in China. The rest may be offered jobs in other countries.

Arm’s China unit acted as a sales office for the British chipmaker in the largest semiconductor market. Earlier this year, the Chinese company laid off more than 100 employees, most of whom worked in the research and development department to create new chip technologies for the local market.

In November, Arm’s CFO said that China’s contribution to the company’s global sales had dropped from 25% to 20%.

Arm’s decision continues the general trend of Western tech companies reducing their business in the Chinese market, in particular due to the US government’s attempt to curb China’s technological development by imposing trade restrictions and sanctions.

In early November, Arm announced a strategic investment in Raspberry Pi. The corporation acquired a minority stake in Raspberry Pi, expanding the successful long-term partnership between the two companies.

This investment further strengthens a partnership that began in 2008 and has resulted in many popular products for students, enthusiasts, and commercial developers.