China Finds a Way Around Sanctions, US Sanctions Find a Way 'Round Their Own Foot
The Financial Times highlights how China is boosting AI chip output by retrofitting older ASML machines, effectively exposing "cracks in US-led export controls." One might wonder if these are 'cracks' or simply the expected outcome when you restrict supply to an entity determined to innovate. The idea that a global power would simply cease its technological advancement because Washington said
'please don't' was always more aspirational than realistic. This isn't a loophole; it's a fundamental misunderstanding of strategic autonomy. Instead of adapting, the U.S. has often favored an enforcement-heavy approach. This predictable 'cat and mouse' game continues, as China demonstrates that where there's a will (and significant state-backed funding), there's almost always a way, especially
when the 'way' involves merely enhancing existing, unrestricted hardware. It appears restricting access to advanced tools only accelerated their domestic upgrade cycles, creating self-sufficiency rather than compliance. Who could have possibly foreseen that?