The United States Commerce Department has asked China's Huawei Technologies to turn over all information regarding the export or reexport of American technology to sanctioned countries such as Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Sudan and Syria.

The New York Times and the Wall Street Journal have reported that the Commerce Department recently sent a subpoena to the Chinese smartphone maker, requesting it to turn over information related to shipments to those countries over the past five years. The U.S. has also sought evidence of shipments to the countries indirectly through front or shell companies. 

Media reports said the subpoena is part of an investigation into whether Huawei broke United States export controls. 

Washington bans exports that partially include American technology to countries placed under sanctions such as North Korea. 

The New York Times, however, said that Huawei has not been accused of wrongdoing, noting the administrative subpoena does not indicate a criminal investigation.