The US and China compete for global leadership in technology

The technological rivalry between the United States and China has become the defining feature of 21st-century geopolitics.

At the core of this struggle are sectors like semiconductors, artificial intelligence, and quantum computing.

The U.S. has adopted a strategy of "de-risking," using the CHIPS and Science Act to boost domestic manufacturing and export controls to limit China's access to high-end tech.

Conversely, China emphasizes "self-reliance" through policies like "Made in China 2025," utilizing massive state subsidies to drive indigenous innovation.

Beyond invention, this is a battle over global rules, covering everything from 5G standards to internet governance.

Experts warn of a potential "Splinternet," where the world splits into two separate technological ecosystems.

While the U.S. relies on a market-driven model supported by government R&D, the Chinese approach uses "Civil-Military Fusion" to align private goals with national interests.