Title: US Commerce Secretary Warns China’s Growing Threat to National Security
US Commerce Secretary, Gina Raimondo, recently addressed the nation’s concerns over China’s aggressive pursuit of cutting-edge technologies by labeling it as “the biggest threat we’ve ever had.” Speaking at an annual national defense forum in California, she emphasized that “China is not our friend,” urging lawmakers, Silicon Valley, and US allies to take immediate action to safeguard national security.
In October, Raimondo made headlines when she introduced restrictions on the export of advanced chips to China, including those integral to the development of artificial intelligence (AI), in a bid to hinder Beijing’s military ambitions. Although criticized for potentially hindering chip companies’ revenue in the short term, she defended her decision, emphasizing that protecting national security takes precedence.
Raimondo also highlighted the importance of democracy and the rule of law for both the US and the global business community, stressing their undeniable benefits. She called for increased vigilance, citing China’s consistent efforts to evade and bypass US export controls, necessitating tighter regulation and stronger enforcement in collaboration with allied nations.
Building on her concerns, Raimondo explicitly criticized Nvidia, a renowned chip manufacturer, for developing a product that only barely meets the export limits set by her department for China, deeming it unproductive.
Moreover, Raimondo underscored the urgent need for better funding for the Department of Commerce, which currently operates on a budget of a mere $200 million. She argued that additional funding is necessary to effectively carry out the department’s mission, particularly in protecting America’s leadership in artificial intelligence and advanced semiconductor design, where the US currently holds a leading position.
Raimondo concluded her speech on a determined note, assuring the nation that the US will not allow China to catch up in these critical technological fields. The urgency to prevent China from obtaining vital semiconductors and cutting-edge technologies is a paramount concern for national security.
As the China-US competition in the realm of technology continues to intensify, Secretary Raimondo’s warning serves as a crucial reminder of the need for prompt action to safeguard America’s technological leadership and national interests.
