Export Controles on Critical Technologies
China is seeking greater control over the export of strategically important technologies and technical knowledge. To this end, the Ministry of Commerce and the Ministry of Science and Technology have proposed new export controls on 40 key technologies in the fields of artificial intelligence, photovoltaics and biomedicine. Exports of 14 of these technologies are to be completely banned, whilst the remaining 26 will be subject to authorisation. The majority of the technologies affected are AI technologies, with 23 in total. The Chinese authorities cite national security concerns, including the risk that such AI models could be used to attack infrastructure. In addition, components used in solar technology, which also could have applications in the defence and space industries, as well as techniques for cell and gene therapies, are to be controlled.
Technology as an Instrument of Geopolitical Power
The proposal illustrates how states are increasingly treating resources and technologies as strategic assets. It also follows Beijing’s introduction of rare earth export controls in 2025. Although Chinese authorities claims that the controls are not directed at any specific country but are driven by general security concerns, these measures also reflect geo-economic competition with the US. While such controls might increase China’s geopolitical leverage, they could also pose challenges for the Chinese export-oriented economy. In doing so, they highlight a shift in international relations, in which technological leadership is no longer used merely as an economic advantage, but rather as an instrument of power politics.
