The Wright Show Trump’s Mammoth Arabian AI Deals (Robert Wright & Paul Triolo)
May 20, 2025
In this episode, Paul Triolo, a consultant specializing in tech related to China, dives into the intriguing new AI data center deals in the Middle East. He discusses the strategic significance of these agreements, especially in relation to competition with China. Triolo also explores the shift from international cooperation on AI to a more competitive stance, the implications of semiconductor supply chains, and the changing landscape of AI safety concerns. Tune in for insights on geopolitics and the evolving narrative around AI technology!
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Data Centers Don't Equal AI Leadership
- The presence of advanced AI data centers in the Middle East doesn't mean these countries lead AI development.
- These centers mostly serve inference needs rather than training cutting-edge models.
US AI Chip Export Policy Shift
- The Biden-era AI diffusion policy created disliked tiers restricting chip sales to countries.
- The Trump administration removed these tiers, now favoring bilateral deals linking chip sales to investments in US infrastructure.
Middle East AI Deals Are Monumental
- The AI chip deals with Saudi Arabia and UAE are significant but still theoretical.
- These deals involve the largest proposed data centers, surpassing existing global infrastructure.