China looks to impose a hefty fine on Qualcomm to protect local device makers

China is said to be close to imposing a fine of more than US$1 billion on chipmaker Qualcomm, indicating it intends to protect local manufacturers who it says have been overcharged by the dominant player.China’s National Development and Reform Commission has been investigating Qualcomm for engaging in possibly anti-competitive behavior by overcharging device makers in the country. Reports emerged on Monday that China was close to imposing a fine of at least US$1 billion, although Qualcomm w