An investigation into Chinese chipmakers has found eight companies allegedly violating Taiwanese law, the latest development in global ambitions to develop crucial technologies used in AI, phones and cars.
Among the accused is Naura Technology Group, one of the suppliers to China’s largest chipmaker, Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corp. The organization denies the allegations and confirms that its office in Taiwan was established “in accordance with local laws and regulations.”
The companies deny poaching talent from Taiwanese firms, despite Taiwan’s top intelligence agencies finding evidence of the improper hiring of engineers to boost China’s semiconductor manufacturing capacity.
Investing in technology
Taiwan accounts for 68% of the semiconductor market, but China is the biggest spender in chip technology. The country spends more than the U.S., Taiwan and South Korea combined — and is on track to spend $50 billion on semiconductor equipment in the near future. So far, China’s domestic industry has been unable to develop the most advanced chips, especially those used in military hardware.
The race to develop and produce chips is just one part of a larger picture. The strategic influence of technology in the geopolitical sphere has become increasingly apparent, with the US and China both appearing to be the dominant technological powers.
The The US has tried to mobilize allies such as Japan to impose restrictions on imports to China in an attempt to hamper development. Japan is being pressured to align more closely with US foreign policy goals by restricting sales of high-end chips.
As both the US and China increase their power in the technology world, the expansion of chip production is expected to continue and development expertise will remain incredibly valuable.
Via Tom’s Hardware
