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The Economics Show

Who is winning the chip wars? With Chris Miller

Aug 26, 2024
In this discussion, Chris Miller, an associate professor at Tufts University and expert on the geopolitics of technology, dives into the intense chip wars between the US and China. He highlights government investments focused on onshoring semiconductor production to bolster national security. The conversation also explores the critical role Taiwan plays in the global supply chain and its implications for AI advancements. Furthermore, they discuss how upcoming elections could reshape semiconductor policy and the push for transparency in supply chains amidst geopolitical tensions.
33:35

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The competitive dynamics of the chip industry are shifting as the US faces challenges from China's aggressive self-sufficiency policies in semiconductor production.
  • Concerns regarding national security and military reliance on advanced chip technology are driving US initiatives like the CHIPS Act to boost domestic manufacturing.

Deep dives

The Current State of the Chip War

The competitive landscape in the chip industry has shifted significantly in the past five years, with the United States experiencing a decline from a perceived strength of eight to a current rating of six. This decrease is attributed to China's aggressive government policies aimed at making the country self-sufficient in high-end chips. The supply chain, heavily reliant on Taiwan for advanced chip production, adds complexity to this competition, as an effective international supply network is now pitted against increasing domestic capabilities in China. The competition primarily hinges on the historical Western supply chain's advantage versus China's rapid technological advancements.

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