BNR – China and South Korea mutually agreed to increase discussions and collaboration on the supply networks of semiconductors. The decision coincides with larger global worries about chip shortages, sanctions, and national security.
On the margins of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation conference, Wang Wentao conferred with South Korean Trade Minister Ahn Duk-geun. The conference took place in Detroit and concluded on Friday.
Bilateral Collaboration
According to the Chinese Ministry of Commerce, they discussed how to keep the industrial supply chain stable. Also, they discussed bilateral, regional, and multilateral collaboration. Furthermore, Wang stated that China is keen to collaborate with South Korea to boost trade relations and investment partnerships.
On the other hand, South Korea’s statement did not mention chips. According to the statement, South Korea’s trade minister requested that China stabilise the supply of critical raw materials. Moreover, the South Korean minister requested a predictable marketplace in China for South Korean companies.
According to a reliable source, South Korea stated that dialogue between working-level officials across all industries is essential. According to the source, the need for dialogue is not limited to semiconductors. Because they had no permission to speak to the media, the source asked to remain unidentified.
South Korea Caught in US-China Feud Over Semiconductors
South Korea is caught in the crossfire of a feud between the United States and China over semiconductors. Micron failed its network security review, according to last week’s statement from China’s cyberspace regulator. As a result, critical infrastructure operators would be unable to purchase from the company.
The United States has urged countries to restrict China’s access to sophisticated semiconductors for several reasons, including national security. According to trade ministry data, China accounts for about 40 per cent of South Korean chip exports. However, South Korean chipmakers Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix require US technology and equipment for manufacturing.
