Biden Government Strikes Back: Major Quantum and Chip Export Ban Hits China – Global Tensions Soar
The Biden Administration’s New Export Controls Focus on Quantum Technology and Semiconductors
By Mackenzie Hawkins
Last Updated: Sep 09, 2024 | 12:01 AM IST
The Biden administration is set to introduce new export controls targeting critical technologies such as quantum computing and advanced semiconductor goods. The aim is to rally key allies in curbing technological advancements in China and other nations perceived as adversarial.
These forthcoming regulations will focus on quantum computers and their components, advanced chipmaking tools, a semiconductor technology known as gate all-around, and various components associated with metals and metal alloys. Although these rules will impact global exports, licensing exemptions will be granted to countries that adopt similar measures, including allies like Japan and the Netherlands.
Washington offers the prospect of more lenient license approvals as an incentive for countries to align with the U.S., leveraging American dominance in numerous academic and research fields. For years, the U.S. has tightened controls to prevent China and other adversaries from accessing advanced technologies critical for artificial intelligence, out of concern that such technologies could enhance Beijing’s military capabilities.
Notably, ASML Holding NV announced that it now needs approval from the Dutch government, rather than the U.S., to export specific types of machines. Taiwan’s economic minister also indicated that the island would align its policies with Washington.
This strategy comprises unilateral measures and coordinated efforts with key allies, including significant semiconductor export controls first introduced in 2022. According to Alan Estevez, head of the Commerce Department’s Bureau of Industry and Security, aligning export controls on advanced technologies hinders adversaries from developing capabilities that could threaten collective security.
Both the U.S. and China are pioneers in the realm of quantum computing, a technology expected to revolutionize several sectors. While concerns exist over how U.S. sanctions impact China’s progress, the effect remains uncertain.
The newly proposed measures will undergo a 60-day public comment period before finalization. Meanwhile, the U.S. is working on an additional set of chip-related export controls, focusing on blocking China’s access to high-bandwidth memory chips essential for AI and a wide range of semiconductor manufacturing tools. Washington is pushing Japan and the Netherlands to adopt similar policies, though both nations have shown resistance due to potential economic repercussions and fears of Chinese retaliation.
In response, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning criticized the U.S. approach, stating it disrupts global industry and supply chains and conflicts with market economy principles.
Original Story https://www.business-standard.com/world-news/biden-govt-to-hit-china-with-quantum-chip-related-export-prohibition-124090800719_1.html
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