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Writer's pictureZayed Kadir

Biden Administration's New Microchip Rules





On October 7, 2022, the Biden administration introduced regulations that could have an impact, on the global microchip industry. These regulations aim to limit China's access to computing chips, hinder their ability to develop and maintain supercomputers and restrict the manufacturing of semiconductors used in military applications.


The new regulations impose restrictions on companies exporting chips and chip-making equipment to China. This move is viewed as an effort to cut off Beijing's supply of microchips used for computing and military purposes. Additionally, the rules introduce export license requirements for less sophisticated chips destined for Chinese companies.


The Biden administration is also urging countries to adopt restrictions. They believe that these unilateral controls will gradually lose effectiveness if not embraced by nations.


These new rules could have an impact on the microchip industry as they pertain to specific tools that are not readily available elsewhere, in the world. The administration has clarified that it does not intend to prevent U.S. Companies from exporting tools that can be easily replaced by firms.


These actions signify an escalation of endeavors aimed at limiting technological advancements. In the past, the U.S. Aimed to maintain an advantage, over China in areas like artificial intelligence and supercomputing. However, security officials are now striving to limit Beijing's progress in these fields potentially slowing down their advancements.


The new rules come a year after President Biden signed into law the CHIPS and Science Act on August 25, 2022. This act makes a nearly $53 billion investment in U.S. semiconductor manufacturing, research and development, and workforce. The law also creates a 25 percent tax credit for capital investments in semiconductor manufacturing.


In the one year since CHIPS was signed into law, companies have announced over $166 billion in manufacturing in semiconductors and electronics. At least 50 community colleges in 19 states have announced new or expanded programming to help American workers access good-paying jobs in the semiconductor industry.


The new rules issued by the Biden administration represent a significant shift in tech policy. They aim to restrict China's access to advanced microchips and maintain U.S. leadership in the semiconductor industry. The impact of these rules on the global microchip industry and U.S.-China relations will be closely watched in the coming months.




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