US and China Engage in Critical Technology Standards Race
The United States and the People’s Republic of China are in a heated competition to lead the development of critical and emerging technologies. Both nations have distinct ambitions and strategic plans aimed at securing their dominance in these fields.
Technical standards play a crucial role in this competition. These standards provide detailed specifications for how technologies should be designed and implemented to ensure that they meet performance benchmarks and are compatible with other products. They are often referred to as the “connective tissue” between technology and the market, establishing guidelines for products, services, and systems.
In recent years, technical standards have become powerful instruments of geopolitical influence. Nations have recognized the importance of these standards, and China has been making efforts to dominate international standards for critical and emerging technologies. If China’s desired standards become the international norms, Taiwan industries may face obstacles in meeting those standards and accessing global supply chains.
To counter this, Taiwanese policymakers need to act proactively by cooperating with domestic communities and stakeholders and other Indo-Pacific economies. The implications of this CET race are significant, bearing both economic and security concerns.
The importance of technical standards in this competition cannot be overstated. The US and China are engaging in a high-stakes game, with the outcome determining the future of critical technologies. The international community must pay attention to this development, as it has far-reaching consequences for global trade, security, and economic stability.
