Odd Lots

How Science Fiction Explains the U.S.-China Trade War

Aug 5, 2019
Laban Yu, the Head of Hong Kong and China research at Jefferies, dives into the intersection of science fiction and the U.S.-China trade war. He highlights how sci-fi narratives mirror the real-world tech rivalry and ethical dilemmas, like the 'Prime Directive' from Star Trek. The conversation explores China's ambitions in semiconductors, detailing both challenges and advancements. Yu also discusses the implications of tariffs and U.S. policies on trade dynamics, drawing fascinating parallels with sci-fi themes that question interference in technological progress.
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ANECDOTE

Sci-Fi Parallels

  • The science fiction writer Liu Cixin describes a civilization sabotaging Earth's scientific progress.
  • This resonates with some regarding the U.S. export ban on Huawei.
INSIGHT

US Policy Motivations

  • Laban Yu believes the U.S. policy is driven by panicked anxiety, not a strategic goal.
  • However, some policy advisors recommend aggressive export bans despite potential drawbacks.
INSIGHT

Tariff and Export Ban Effects

  • Trump's tariff approach might push multinationals out of China.
  • The export ban on Huawei could perversely move supply chains out of the U.S. and accelerate China's tech development.
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