Strategic Justification for Export Controls

The U.S. government's recent export control policies, particularly aimed at China's semiconductor industry, are driven by strategic justifications that have evolved over time. Initially, these policies targeted specific Chinese companies like Huawei, reflecting concerns about their role in critical technology sectors such as 5G. As tensions regarding potential conflict over Taiwan increased, the focus shifted to controlling advanced technologies deemed essential for military supremacy, particularly artificial intelligence. Ultimately, the Biden administration aims to restrict China's ability to develop cutting-edge AI capabilities that could alter the balance of power in a future military conflict.