China’s Plan to Build AI Chip Factories Using Particle Accelerators to Bypass Sanctions
Chinese scientists are reportedly exploring the construction of massive facilities to locally manufacture the technology required for AI semiconductor chips. The aim is to bypass the sanctions that have impacted the local industry. This move comes as China seeks to develop artificial intelligence (AI) chip factories that utilize particle accelerators, according to a report by the South China Morning Post (SCMP).
By using particle accelerators, Chinese scientists hope to find new methods for producing a unique laser source. The electron beam generated by the accelerator will be transformed into a high-quality light source necessary for the on-site manufacturing of AI semiconductor chips.
The report states that a team of scientists from Tsinghua University is currently in discussions with authorities in the Xiongan New Area to determine the most suitable location for the development of the factory. The scientists see this as a potential way to circumvent the existing sanctions imposed by the United States.
The particle accelerators would replace the lithography machines currently used in the production process of semiconductor chips for advanced AI systems. Currently, the Netherlands-based company Advanced Semiconductor Materials Lithography (ASML) is the sole provider of this technology. However, the United States has restricted the company from selling its top-end machines to China. Similarly, Nvidia, the leading AI chip manufacturer, has also been barred from selling its most powerful products to China.
The SCMP report suggests that the proposed Chinese mega-factory could accommodate multiple lithography machines.
This is not the first time China has attempted to counter sanctions through domestic efforts. Earlier this year, reports emerged about Chinese companies exploring methods to develop AI systems using less powerful semiconductors and different chip combinations in the face of US sanctions.
Despite these sanctions, Chinese companies have continued to release new AI systems. In September, Tencent unveiled its own ChatGPT rival in the Chinese market.
Conversely, the United States has been tightening its control over the AI manufacturing market. During a recent visit to Vietnam, the US made deals worth billions of dollars, specifically focusing on AI chips and technology. The US is concerned about China taking the lead in AI development, and European regulators are also starting to consider their stance on export controls and restrictions on China.
China’s plan to build AI chip factories using particle accelerators to bypass sanctions is part of its larger strategy to strengthen its domestic AI industry. By leveraging homegrown technology, China aims to reduce its reliance on foreign suppliers and assert its dominance in the rapidly advancing field of artificial intelligence.
As China forges ahead with its efforts, it remains to be seen how other countries will respond to China’s push for self-sufficiency in AI chip manufacturing. With both China and the US vying for technological supremacy, the global AI landscape is set to become even more competitive in the coming years.
