1. Biden’s China tech policy: de-risking or decoupling?
Aug 18, 2023
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US President Joe Biden's strategy to counter China's technological advancements, China's response to US economic impact, the speculation surrounding China's tech industry, and potential partnerships with Saudi Arabia.
US President Joe Biden has issued an executive order restricting certain US investments in countries like China, Hong Kong, and Macau, with a focus on semiconductors, artificial intelligence, and quantum computing, in an effort to address national security concerns and prevent the exacerbation of the threat posed by these countries' advancements in critical technologies.
China's response to the executive order has followed a familiar pattern of accusing the US of unfair competition, but has stopped short of a strong condemnation and immediate retaliation, leaving the nature and timing of China's countermeasures uncertain.
Deep dives
Biden's Executive Order on US-China Tech War
US President Joe Biden has issued an executive order declaring a national emergency due to the development of sensitive technologies and products in countries that counter US and allied capabilities. The order restricts certain US investments in countries like China, Hong Kong, Macau. While China is not explicitly mentioned, the restricted areas include semiconductors, artificial intelligence, and quantum computing. The order aims to prevent the exacerbation of the unusual and extraordinary threat posed by these countries' advancements in critical technologies. The Biden administration seeks to limit the damage to the US-China bilateral relationship and maintain engagement strategies while addressing the national security concerns.
China's Response to Executive Order
China's response to the executive order follows a familiar pattern of accusing the US of unfair competition and disregarding international trade rules. Beijing views the restrictions as targeted against Chinese companies and the government, hindering China's high-tech development. While Beijing expressed disappointment at the US action, it stopped short of a strong condemnation and did not announce immediate retaliation. However, China is expected to respond in some way, although the specific nature and timing of the countermeasures remain uncertain.
Saudi Arabia's Growing Investment in Chinese Tech Industry
Saudi Arabia has emerged as a significant player in China's tech industry, investing in areas such as semiconductors, AI, and supercomputing. Saudi Arabia sees China as a trusted partner for its ambitious development plans, considering China's technological capabilities and the need for cutting-edge companies to support various sectors. Additionally, Saudi Arabia's resourcefulness and financial strength make it an attractive investment destination for Chinese tech companies facing pressure from the Western world. The economic cooperation between China and Saudi Arabia is a mutually beneficial relationship, as both countries meet their specific needs for technology and investment.
US President Joe Biden has taken another step to counter China’s technological advancements. Post North America bureau chief Rob Delaney and Beijing-based correspondent Kinling Lo analyse Biden’s “small yard, high fence” strategy, the muted response from Beijing and how next year’s US elections may further escalate this tech war.
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