On September 28, 2024, the United States announced new export controls targeting technology and equipment used in quantum computing and advanced AI semiconductors, intensifying its efforts to curb China's technological advancements. This move comes as the U.S. seeks to maintain a technological edge amid rising global tensions.
The regulations will prohibit the import of vehicles equipped with Chinese software or hardware, citing security risks associated with connected vehicles that could be vulnerable to hacking. Starting from the 2027 model year, vehicles with Chinese software will be banned, followed by those with Chinese hardware in 2028.
In addition, the U.S. has significantly increased tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles and components, reflecting a broader strategy to limit China's market penetration, particularly in Europe and Asia, where Chinese automobile exports surged by 29% in the first half of the year.
These actions are part of a comprehensive approach by the U.S. to secure core technologies critical for national security, including quantum technology, AI, and advanced semiconductors, aimed at preventing China and Russia from enhancing their military capabilities through technological cooperation.
The U.S. is also calling on its allies to align with its export control policies, reinforcing a divided global landscape where cooperation among like-minded nations is deemed essential for maintaining technological superiority.
The implications of these developments could reshape global supply chains and alter the dynamics of international trade, particularly in the tech sector, as nations navigate the complexities of a new geopolitical landscape.