The US trusts only half of Europe with high-tech
22 January 2025
Who does the United States trust when it comes to AI? The US has limited the export of advanced semiconductors to specific countries. These chips are critical for artificial intelligence (AI) technologies like machine learning and computer vision, which drive advancements in defence, healthcare, and finance. Import limitations could create a technological divide within Europe.
While most Central and Eastern European countries now face strict caps on the amount of chips they can import, Western European countries have been classified as 'trusted partners' and are exempt from these restrictions. Poland, which pledged to increase spending on AI development just last week, is now at risk of falling behind in the rapidly evolving tech landscape.
With these restrictions, the US wants to ensure that American technology remains under its control, focusing on serving favoured governments and businesses rather than fostering global AI competition.
 | Aleksandra Twardowska Europe's hyper-dependence on the US companies makes us particularly vulnerable to this decision. In light of yesterday's presidential inauguration of Trump, who wishes for more trade barriers between the US and the rest of the world, the export limitations serve as a last call for the EU to come closer together and build its independent AI chip industry. |
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