Japan and the Netherlands are expected to restrict semiconductor chip exports to China, joining the United States in its trade war in an effort to limit the world power’s ability to develop advanced technology such as artificial intelligence and military weapons.
The two countries are expected to end talks as soon as Friday that would implement a series of new limits on what chips can be provided to China, according to Bloomberg. Negotiations were still ongoing as of Thursday night. The new restrictions would limit Chinese companies’ ability to produce certain types of advanced chips.
The Treasury imposed export controls in October on specific advanced technological components that will limit acquisitions by certain Chinese companies. China bashed the decision, claiming it would “damage the legitimate rights and interests” of Chinese and American companies.
MAJOR CAPITOL CHANGE SEES WILD NIGHT FOR FIRST TIME IN 7 YEARS
Japanese politicians have echoed support for the U.S. actions over semiconductors in recent months. “Countries like China, Russia, and North Korea are vying for global hegemony, and we should never help them achieve that,” Japanese lawmaker Akira Amari told the Japan Times. “We must join the U.S. in stopping exports of cutting-edge chips that can be diverted for military use and pose serious security concerns.” Amari served as the former head of Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry and played an integral role in expanding the country’s semiconductor development efforts.
CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER
America’s efforts to compete with China have been the focus of legislation in the last year. The CHIPS Act, passed last summer, provided tens of billions of dollars to manufacturers to expand their domestic factories. The law has already led to additional plants in Ohio, New York, and Arizona.
Manufacturers have also reported diminishing sales of semiconductors, leading to a surplus of chips in storage.