The US Commerce Department has announced new export controls on quantum computers and semiconductor-manufacturing equipment, citing concerns about rival countries like China using advanced technologies. The restrictions were put in place following consultations with international partners to strengthen relations with like-minded countries. Alan Estevez, Under Secretary for the Bureau of Industry and Security, stated that these measures would make it harder for adversaries to develop and deploy technologies that could threaten national security.
The US has imposed similar restrictions on China’s tech industry, targeting advanced chips and related equipment. President Biden’s administration has urged allied countries, such as the Netherlands and Japan, to implement their own controls to limit China’s access to semiconductor technology. The Netherlands, for example, recently announced tighter export controls on semiconductor-making machines, citing increased security risks in the current geopolitical context.
In response, China has been investing heavily to achieve self-sufficiency in advanced chips, despite US efforts to restrict its technological progress. Chinese-made chips are reportedly only three years behind those produced by industry leader Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co Ltd, according to TechanaLye, a semiconductor research company based in Tokyo. China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs criticized the US for disrupting global supply chains and violating market principles, stating that these actions are not in the interest of any side.
Overall, the US’s export controls on advanced technologies are part of a broader effort to counter China’s technological advancements and maintain national security interests. The ongoing strategic rivalry between the two countries continues to drive policies aimed at limiting China’s access to critical technology.
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