US China semiconductor History Timeline and Biographies

US-China Semiconductor Cooperation Begins

In the early 1980s, the United States and China began establishing cooperative agreements in technology transfer, including semiconductors, as China sought to modernize its industrial base. This marked the beginning of a long-standing relationship in semiconductor development between the two nations.

China's First Semiconductor Joint Venture

In 1994, the first major joint venture in the semiconductor sector was established in China, involving US companies. This partnership aimed to enhance China's manufacturing capabilities and integrate advanced semiconductor technologies from the US into China's growing tech landscape.

Formation of SMIC, China's Leading Semiconductor Manufacturer

The Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corporation (SMIC) was founded in 1998 in Shanghai, marking a significant step in the US-China semiconductor collaboration. SMIC aimed to become a leading foundry service provider, benefiting from technology and expertise shared by US partners.

US-China Semiconductor Trade Surges

By 2000, trade in semiconductors between the US and China saw significant growth, with China becoming a major market for US semiconductor exports. This period marked increased interdependence as Chinese companies began to adopt and manufacture US-designed chips.

China Joins the WTO, Boosting Semiconductor Trade

China's accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO) in 2001 further opened its markets to foreign semiconductor companies, including those from the US. This move led to increased foreign investment and technology transfer in the Chinese semiconductor sector.

China's National Medium- and Long-Term Program for Science and Technology Development

In 2006, China launched a comprehensive strategy aimed at becoming self-sufficient in semiconductor production, focusing on R&D and supporting domestic companies. This program signaled a shift towards reducing reliance on US semiconductor technology.

China's "Made in China 2025" Initiative Targets Semiconductors

The "Made in China 2025" initiative was introduced in 2014, with a specific focus on advancing China's semiconductor capabilities. The initiative aimed to reduce dependence on foreign technology, including US semiconductor products, and foster domestic innovation.

US-China Trade War Affects Semiconductor Relations

The US-China trade war began in 2018, leading to tariffs on various goods, including semiconductors. This conflict created significant tensions in the semiconductor supply chain, affecting US companies' ability to operate in China and vice versa.

Huawei Sanctions Impact US-China Semiconductor Market

In 2019, the US government placed sanctions on Huawei, a leading Chinese telecommunications company, restricting its access to US semiconductor technology. This move highlighted the growing security concerns and competitive rivalry in the US-China semiconductor landscape.

China's Investment in Semiconductor Self-Sufficiency Increases

Amid escalating trade tensions, China significantly increased its investments in domestic semiconductor companies to achieve self-sufficiency. The focus was on developing advanced fabrication technologies to reduce reliance on US semiconductor imports.

US Implements Export Controls on Semiconductor Technology to China

In 2021, the US government implemented stringent export controls on semiconductor technologies, particularly targeting advanced chips and manufacturing equipment. These measures aimed to curb China's technological advancements in semiconductors, exacerbating tensions between the two nations.

Bipartisan Support for US Semiconductor Manufacturing Boosts Domestic Industry

In response to the growing competition from China, the US Congress passed legislation to support domestic semiconductor manufacturing, aiming to bolster the US semiconductor industry and reduce dependence on foreign supply chains, particularly from China.

China's Semiconductor Industry Faces Increased Challenges

As international sanctions and export controls continued, China's semiconductor industry faced significant challenges in accessing advanced technology. This situation highlighted the strategic importance of the US-China semiconductor rivalry in global tech supply chains.

Future Prospects for US-China Semiconductor Relations

Looking ahead in 2024, the US-China semiconductor landscape remains complex, with ongoing tensions and competition. Both countries are investing heavily in semiconductor R&D and production capabilities, indicating that the rivalry will continue to shape the future of the global semiconductor industry.