SEMICONDUCTOR DIPLOMACY: How Chip Exports Became the New Nuclear Weapons
SEMICONDUCTOR DIPLOMACY: How Chip Exports Became the New Nuclear Weapons Core thesis: During the Cold War, nuclear weapons were the strongest deterrent. In the 21st century, that weapon has been replaced by something much smaller: semiconductors. The United States restricts the export of advanced chips, China retaliates by restricting critical minerals, and the countries in between—including Indonesia—are caught between two powers applying mutual pressure. This article is not about accusing anyone. It is an analysis of why chips have become the most lethal weapon in the world today—and why Indonesia must be vigilant. --- HOOK One chip. One country. One decision. In 2022, the United States banned the export of advanced chips to China. That decision changed everything—not just for those two countries, but for the entire world. China retaliated by restricting the export of rare earth minerals—the raw materials for chips. And suddenly, the entire global supply chain shuddered. Chips a...