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Chinese Whispers

Have America's chips controls backfired?

Feb 10, 2025
In this discussion, Ryan Fedasiuk, U.S. Director of The Future Society and former U.S.-China advisor, teams up with Steve Hsu, theoretical physicist and host of Manifold. They explore the impacts of U.S. semiconductor export controls on China, debating whether these measures truly widen the tech gap or inadvertently boost Chinese innovation. The duo dives into the complexities of the semiconductor landscape, challenges faced by Chinese AI firms, and the geopolitical implications of AI competition between the two nations.
57:06

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Quick takeaways

  • The U.S. export controls aimed at curbing China's access to cutting-edge technology may have unintentionally fueled Chinese self-reliance and innovation.
  • Despite facing sanctions, Chinese companies like Huawei are adapting by strengthening local supply chains and collaborating with domestic suppliers.

Deep dives

US Export Controls and Their Objectives

The United States has implemented export controls primarily aimed at technological containment of China, specifically focusing on sectors crucial for military modernization, human rights abuses, and economic competitiveness. These measures began during the Trump administration and have continued under Biden, targeting advanced semiconductors and AI technologies. The intention is to prevent China from developing capabilities that could pose a threat to U.S. interests. The underlying belief is that limiting China's access to cutting-edge technology will hinder their advancements in key strategic areas.

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