The Biden administration is currently considering imposing additional restrictions on China’s AI technology, specifically targeting the use of GAA semiconductor technology. This move comes as tensions between the US and China in the technology industry are at an all-time high, with the US aiming to curb China’s rapid semiconductor developments.
GAA technology is seen as crucial for achieving high-end semiconductor processes, offering benefits such as improved power efficiency, heat dissipation, and performance gains. While the adoption of GAA technology is currently limited, with only Samsung utilizing it in its 3nm and upcoming 2nm processes, the potential for advancements is significant.
The US plans to restrict China’s access to GAA technology in an effort to hinder the country’s semiconductor progress, which has seen notable advancements in recent years. Chinese companies like Huawei have made significant strides in developing semiconductor processes, with reports of a 5nm process in development and improved yield rates for existing processes. Additionally, China’s top semiconductor foundry SMIC has successfully implemented a 5nm process without EUV lithography.
It remains to be seen how the US will enforce these restrictions to impede China’s semiconductor growth. Past attempts at sanctions have shown limited effectiveness in curbing China’s technological advancements, raising questions about the potential impact of these new measures.