Odd Lots Dan Wang on China's Mission to Be a World Leader in Semiconductors
Jan 28, 2021
Dan Wang, a tech analyst at Gavekal Dragonomics with expertise in Chinese tech and manufacturing, sheds light on China's ambitious quest to dominate the semiconductor industry. He discusses the impact of the pandemic on tech supply chains and China's rapid recovery. Delving into the complexities of industrial policy, he contrasts China's semiconductor struggles with its successes in solar energy. Wang also navigates the tense dynamics between China, Taiwan, and global tech competition, highlighting challenges in achieving technological self-sufficiency.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Life in Beijing During COVID
- Dan Wang lived in Beijing during the pandemic's peak, experiencing lockdowns and restrictions.
- The city was a ghost town, with mask mandates, health code apps, and limited travel.
China's Manufacturing Agility
- Chinese manufacturers quickly adapted to the pandemic, prioritizing profit and filling the demand for PPE.
- They demonstrated a can-do attitude, contrasting with Western counterparts who questioned their core competence.
Adaptability vs. Scientific Prowess
- China's rapid adaptation during the pandemic doesn't guarantee scientific superpower status.
- The U.S. excelled in vaccine development, highlighting its scientific strength, while China hasn't achieved similar breakthroughs in areas like semiconductors.