The escalating trade tensions between the US and China are taking a toll on the Chinese semiconductor industry, with the latest casualty being Advanced Micro-Fabrication Equipment (AMEC). Two key executives, Ni Tuqiang, vice general manager, and Yang Wei, core technical staff, have resigned from their positions at the company, citing “personal reasons.” Both executives hold US citizenship.
This move comes as a result of US export rules that prohibit US citizens from supporting the development of advanced semiconductors in China. These rules, implemented in October 2022, require licenses for US individuals involved in producing certain advanced chips at Chinese fabrication facilities. The restrictions apply to specific semiconductor technologies including FinFET or GAAFET-based logic produced on 14nm/16nm-class nodes or below, DRAM chips made on a node of 18nm half-pitch or less, and 3D NAND ICs with 128 layers or more.
While AMEC does not manufacture chips, it specializes in etching and chemical vapor deposition tools crucial for the production of advanced semiconductors. The company has confirmed that the resignations will not affect its operational strength and research capabilities, but it remains unclear whether AMEC sought and was denied licenses for its US employees, forcing them to step down.
The US restrictions have also impacted another Chinese semiconductor equipment manufacturer, Naura, which asked its US citizen engineers to suspend their work to comply with export regulations. These events highlight the growing impact of the US export controls on the Chinese semiconductor industry, which has been heavily reliant on foreign expertise.
China's rapid advancements in its semiconductor sector have been driven by talent recruitment from the US, South Korea, and Taiwan. This has led to the emergence of leading firms like AMEC, Naura, SMIC, and YMTC. Foreign professionals have played a significant role in these companies, leveraging their expertise to accelerate development and innovation.
However, the US export rules are aimed at limiting the flow of sensitive technology to China, particularly in the crucial semiconductor industry. This is a strategic move to protect US technological dominance and prevent China from making significant strides in chip manufacturing. The move could have a significant impact on Chinese companies in the mid-term as they struggle to find replacements for skilled foreign personnel.
While the US is aiming to hinder China's semiconductor ambitions, China is actively developing its own talent pool. The long-term strategy is to build a domestic workforce capable of supporting the semiconductor industry's growth.
The recent resignations at AMEC underscore the growing tensions between the US and China, which have far-reaching implications for the global semiconductor landscape. The situation is likely to evolve as China continues to invest in its own talent development and explore alternative avenues for technology acquisition. The battle for semiconductor dominance is far from over, and the coming years will be crucial in determining the future of this critical industry.
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