The dominance of US semiconductor technology in Chinese phones makes for great angst in Beijing. It reveals Americans firms are generations ahead in semiconductor and other technologies - we are talking 20 to 30 years. In assembly factories across the China, the critical parts that go into phones, tablets, routers, vehicles, even airplanes, are often imports from advanced economies like the United States.
The Chinese government has ambitious plans to end this dependence.
“Techno-nationalism has a long and stellar history in China,” said Damien Ma, fellow and associate director of Paulson Institute think tank in Chicago. “During Mao’s time, they always wanted to have some semblance of technological self-sufficiency. And I don’t think that in itself is surprising or odd. Many countries want it.”
Many Trump administration officials call these Chinese plans “frightening” and a direct national security threat and a sound reason to impose tariffs on Chinese products. Some American academics and politicians fear China will soon enjoy global domination of many high-tech sectors at the expense of many Western industrial economies.
Does this matter?
Will it happen?
Do you think America's biggest and best businesses are sitting still and not moving forward?
Also, do you think China can execute?
Business plans mean little if you can't execute, ship, and scale.
-Marc A. Ross
Marc A. Ross is the founder of Caracal Global and specializes in global communications, thought leader management, and event production at the intersection of international politics, policy, and profits. Working with senior executives from multinational corporations, trade associations, and disruptive startups, Marc helps business leaders navigate globalization, disruption, and American politics.
