US Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo delivered a compelling message at the annual national defense forum in Simi Valley, California, emphasizing the need for a united front among lawmakers, Silicon Valley, and US allies to curb China’s access to advanced semiconductors and critical technologies vital for national security. Raimondo highlighted the escalating tension between the US and China, labeling China as the biggest threat the US has ever faced and clarifying, “China is not our friend.”
In her assertive address, Raimondo pointed to the significant role her department has in the ongoing US-China rivalry. The Commerce Department recently introduced stringent export controls on sophisticated chips to China, particularly those utilized in artificial intelligence (AI) development, aiming to prevent their potential military applications by Beijing. The restrictions have drawn mixed reactions, especially from chip industry leaders concerned about revenue impacts. However, Raimondo underscored the paramount importance of national security over short-term profit, stating, “Protecting our national security matters more than short-term revenue.”
Raimondo also touched upon the responses of companies like Nvidia, which have adapted their products to narrowly comply with the export restrictions. She acknowledged this as typical industry behavior but expressed concern over its effectiveness in the larger context of safeguarding sensitive technologies.
The Commerce Secretary emphasized that China persistently seeks ways to circumvent US export controls, necessitating constant vigilance and stricter enforcement measures. She underscored the need for enhanced cooperation with international allies and called for increased funding to bolster her department’s capability to execute its crucial mission effectively.
Highlighting the budgetary constraints, Raimondo compared her department’s $200 million budget to the cost of a few fighter jets, advocating for more substantial financial support. She asserted that robust funding is essential for the Commerce Department to perform its role in protecting American interests.
Raimondo concluded her speech with a strong affirmation of America’s leadership in AI and advanced semiconductor design, crediting the nation’s private sector for these achievements. She expressed a firm resolve to maintain this technological edge and prevent China from catching up, reiterating the critical importance of these technologies in the broader context of national security and global technological
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